FG Makes U-Turn, Seeks Closer Partnership with Catholic Bishops

The Federal Government has made a significant shift in its engagement with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), pledging to deepen dialogue and collaboration after recent criticisms of the administration by the Church.

In a statement personally signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, the government said it would strengthen its partnership with the Catholic Bishops and other faith-based organisations to jointly address Nigeria’s social, economic and security challenges.

The statement stressed that the President Bola Tinubu administration recognises that lasting solutions to the country’s challenges require sustained engagement with faith-based organisations, traditional rulers, civil society groups, the private sector and ordinary citizens.

According to the SGF, the government remains open to constructive dialogue and honest counsel, noting that discussions with the Catholic Bishops centred on key national issues, including insecurity, the economy, education, public service delivery, electoral credibility and religious freedom.

In what appears to be a conciliatory move, Akume reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to democratic principles, insisting that the Federal Government neither seeks nor supports the creation of a one-party state.

He also pledged continued respect for the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The SGF acknowledged the Catholic Church’s longstanding contributions to national development, particularly in education, healthcare and humanitarian services, and assured that consultations with the Bishops and other stakeholders would continue in the interest of peace, national unity and sustainable development.

The renewed commitment marks a notable change in the Federal Government’s approach, signalling a willingness to engage more closely with the Catholic Bishops following recent exchanges over the state of the nation.