…says FG’s reform policies increasing poverty, hardship
…CBN advocates shift from being consumer to producer nation
By Samson Adeyanju
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), acknowledging the efforts of honest, patriotic citizens working to improve the country, has also warned of threats posed by terrorists, armed robbers, kidnappers, bandits, fraudsters, and economic manipulators.
These forces, the conference said, are determined to make life unbearable for Nigerians, driven by a craving for immoral profit.
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Rev. Ignatius A. Kaigama made the revelation on behalf of the CBCN while delivery his homily during the First Sunday of Lent at a Mass that coincided with the First Plenary of the CBCN held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), in Abuja.
He lamented the prevalence of hunger, poverty, and inflation, which he described as conspiring to bring death to the doorsteps of many.
The Abuja Metropolitan Archbishop described Nigeria as caught between “modern-day wild beasts and angels.” However, the Chief Shepherd of Abuja Archdiocese called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith and to resist the temptation to despair.
He also emphasized the importance of synodality, a concept promoted by Pope Francis, which emphasizes collective decision-making and active participation in the Church.
The Man of God urged Nigerians to embrace synodality as a way to address the country’s challenges and promote unity and dialogue.
He then expressed confidence that with faith and resilience, Nigerians can overcome these challenges and build a better society for all.
He called on political leaders and all Nigerians to resist the temptations of greed and corruption and to work towards a more just and peaceful Nigeria.
…says FG’s reform policies increases poverty, hardship
President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji has criticized the Federal Government’s reform policies, attributing them to the increased poverty and hardship faced by Nigerians.
Speaking at the opening session of the 2024 First Plenary Assembly of the CBCN in Abuja, Archbishop Ugorji expressed concern over the state of the nation, highlighting persistent insecurity and economic challenges.
He pointed out that despite the government’s assurances that the withdrawal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market would lead to economic improvements, the opposite has occurred.
The Archbishop stated that these policies have resulted in a sharp increase in the pump price of petroleum products, a decline in the value of the Naira, and high inflation, making it difficult for Nigerians to access basic commodities.
Archbishop Ugorji also criticized the government for its failure to address corruption effectively, citing rampant cases of embezzlement and financial mismanagement.
He called for more proactive measures to combat corruption and ensure accountability in public financial management.
The Archbishop urged the government to prioritize the security and well-being of its citizens, emphasizing the need for urgent steps to address the rising insecurity in the country.
He called on the government to learn from other nations’ security strategies and take decisive action to protect lives and property.
He then called for unity and solidarity among Nigerians, urging them to uphold the teachings of the Church and resist the influence of secularist ideologies.
He expressed hope for a brighter future for Nigeria and declared the plenary assembly open.
Tinubu vows to improve security, economy
On his part, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, expressed FG’s commitment to enhancing security, boosting the economy, and creating opportunities for all Nigerians.
Sen Akume commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its achievements despite challenges, even as he highlighted the administration’s advancements in agriculture, food security, health sector improvements, national security reforms, and economic growth.
He emphasized the shared vision between the government and the Church for a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria, focusing on economic transformation, security, social services, and governance efficiency.
Amid economic hardships and security concerns, the FG is calling for continued faith, prayer, and perseverance.
Both the government and the Church are determined to navigate these challenges and work towards a brighter future for the nation.
CBN advocates shift from being consumer to producer nation
Speaking at the event, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and Chairman of the First Plenary Session of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Olayemi Cardoso, stressed the need for Nigeria to shift from being a consumer nation to a producer nation.
Highlighting the importance of moderating appetite for foreign goods to stabilize the economy, he discussed the distinction between fiscal and monetary policies, noting the role of the CBN in maintaining price and financial stability.
Cardoso expressed optimism, citing positive outcomes from the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidies and reforms attracting international investors.
He called for continued support and prayers from the Catholic community, stressing the importance of communication to explain complex economic concepts and instill hope in the people.
Cardoso expressed his joy by thanking the conference for inviting him and said he now has the renewed vigor gained from the conference, even as he pledged to work towards a better Nigeria.
In his goodwill message, the President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh acknowledging CBCN’s dedication to the Christian community, commended their efforts in addressing issues of governance, insecurity, injustice, and economic conditions in Nigeria.
Dwelling on the theme of the plenary, “Synod on Synodality: Focusing on Areas of Concern for the Church in Nigeria,” was highlighted as a significant step towards inclusivity and unity within the Church.
Archbishop Okoh expressed support for the CBCN’s efforts to strengthen the Church’s impact through dialogue and collaboration.
Addressing the challenges faced by Nigerian churches, Archbishop Okoh urged the CBCN to engage in discussions on national issues with sincerity and humility.
