The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised concerns over the worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and rising youth unemployment in the country. Despite government reforms, they say, millions of Nigerians continue to suffer.
The bishops made their remarks during their 2025 First Plenary Meeting held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in Abuja. Attendees included Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, President of CBCN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, Catholic Archbishop of Abuja.
Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged some of the government’s economic measures, such as road repairs and student loans, but insisted that these efforts had not improved the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“Food inflation has reached 39.84%, making it hard for families to afford three meals a day. Right now, 129 million Nigerians live in poverty. Temporary palliatives are not enough—we need long-term solutions,” he stated.
The bishops also warned about increasing insecurity across Nigeria. They pointed out that Boko Haram, bandits, and unidentified gunmen continue to carry out violent attacks, with kidnappings on the rise.
Religious leaders have not been spared. The bishops cited the abduction of Fr. Philip Ekweli and a seminarian, as well as the killing of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, as proof that criminals act with impunity.
“Our nation is under siege,” Ugorji said. “Nigerians are being abducted, tortured, and killed daily. Even religious leaders are not safe. The government must step up security, improve intelligence gathering, and provide better tools for security agencies.”
With 53% of young Nigerians unemployed, the bishops warned that widespread joblessness could lead to more crime, including cyber fraud, robbery, and ritual killings.
Ugorji called on the government to invest in job creation and vocational training. “Many young people have lost hope in Nigeria. Some turn to crime, while others risk dangerous migration routes searching for a better life. We must act now before frustration leads to more social unrest.”
The bishops also highlighted the poor state of Nigeria’s prisons, where 60–90% of inmates are awaiting trial. They called for judicial reforms to ensure speedy trials and better prison conditions in line with human rights standards.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the CAN President, stressed the urgent need for national renewal. He warned that many Nigerians are struggling to afford basic necessities like food, medicine, and school fees.
“We cannot continue like this,” Okoh said. “The gap between the rich and poor is wider than ever. If we do not take action now, things will only get worse.”
Archbishop Kaigama also urged the government to prioritize policies that ease economic hardship and promote values like honesty and community support.
