President Tinubu Assures Nation's Stability Amidst Catholic Bishops' Plea

President Bola Tinubu, during a meeting in Abuja with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its President, Most Reverend Matthew Ndagoso, affirmed that ongoing efforts to restructure security operations and institutions would lead to victory against terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings across Nigeria. The President underscored that the nation's security architecture is being meticulously repositioned for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness.

President Tinubu elaborated on the government's multi-faceted approach to addressing security challenges, which includes improved intelligence gathering, a comprehensive restructuring and repositioning of security institutions, bolstered logistical support, and a renewed focus on the welfare of frontline personnel. He also announced the approval for the expansion of the armed forces, procurement of more equipment, and the construction of new barracks, reiterating his commitment to defeating terrorism. He called upon the CBCN and all religious leaders to actively condemn violent acts, guide their congregants, and lend support to governmental initiatives aimed at eradicating insurgency, emphasizing Nigeria as the only country they have.

Regarding economic stability and poverty alleviation, President Tinubu assured that the government would sustain interventions designed to directly uplift families and citizens, citing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as an example. He stated that the country's economy had recovered from the precarious state he inherited, asserting that his administration has successfully stabilized the nation and that prosperity is on the horizon. He encouraged citizens to seize available opportunities for engagement offered by both government and private institutions, advocating for education, entrepreneurship, and skills acquisition.

The President highlighted progress in the education sector, specifically noting that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is no longer on strike, preventing disruptions to academic calendars and bringing relief to homes. On the matter of credible elections, President Tinubu maintained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has remained neutral, providing equal opportunities for all participants. He also informed the CBCN leaders that state governors possess the constitutional authority to decide on the return of mission schools.

In his remarks, Most Reverend Matthew Ndagoso, Archbishop of Kaduna, expressed appreciation for the warm reception extended to the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Vatican. Ndagoso outlined several areas of concern for the CBCN, including security, the quality and limited spaces in tertiary education, the sustainability of democratic gains, the imperative for credible elections, and the pressing issue of poverty. He urged President Tinubu to consider the return of mission schools and to ensure fair treatment for all worshippers, including the provision of worship places across the country without bias. The CBCN delegation included Most Reverend Alfred Martins, Archbishop of Lagos/CBCN Vice President; Most Reverend Peter Odetoyinbo, Bishop of Abeokuta/CBCN Secretary; and Most Reverend Moses Chikwe, Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri/CBCN Assistant Secretary.