Catholic Bishops Urge Action Against Hunger and Insecurity in Nigeria

The CBCN has expressed concerns regarding ongoing hunger and insecurity in Nigeria, emphasizing issues like poverty, youth unemployment, and inadequate correctional facilities. CBCN President, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, highlighted the need for responsible governance and protection of human rights. Despite some economic progress, the overall outlook remains bleak. The bishops advocate for perseverance in the quest for good governance and justice.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised deep concerns regarding the ongoing hardships and insecurity affecting the nation, despite some observable advancements. During the first meeting of 2025, CBCN President Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji warned against human rights violations and corruption. He stressed that leaders mismanaging public funds risk inciting unrest among the population.

Bishop Ugorji highlighted the country’s dire socio-economic conditions, including increasing insecurity and youth unemployment, noting the inadequate state of federal correctional centres. He pointed out that recent economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy have led to significant inflation and heightened poverty rates, with 129 million Nigerians living below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. Furthermore, the Global Report on Food Crisis named Nigeria the second-worst in acute food insecurity, affecting 24 million people.

The Archbishop lamented the escalating violence in communities, where residents face terror and displacement. He criticized the government’s insufficient use of technology in law enforcement, which could enhance security efforts. In a moment of solemn reflection, the bishops remembered victims of violence, condemning the horrific nature of crimes being committed, including kidnappings for ritualistic purposes.

Youth unemployment remains a critical issue, particularly as youth constitute 70% of the Nigerian population. The bishops called for perseverance in the quest for better governance through transparent elections while denouncing the inhumane treatment of individuals held without trial. The deplorable conditions in correctional facilities further undermine justice.

To combat these challenges, Ugorji urged the necessity of upholding fundamental rights and promoting civic education alongside good governance. He warned corrupt leaders of the potential consequences of their actions and the historical lessons learned from revolutions. Despite some governmental progress, such as road rehabilitation and fiscal reforms, he emphasized that the overall state of the nation remains grim and worrisome.

In a mass held prior to the conference, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama conveyed that despite current trials, divine intervention could lead Nigeria to renewed hope and prosperity. Archbishop Daniel Okoh of the Christian Association of Nigeria echoed these sentiments, expressing optimism in the role of the Catholic Church and other entities in steering Nigeria toward a brighter future.

The CBCN has issued a call for urgency in addressing Nigeria’s pervasive hunger and insecurity, stressing the need for good governance and human rights protections. Although some governmental progress has been achieved, challenges such as poverty, youth unemployment, and the inadequacy of correctional facilities persist. The bishops’ message underscores both the severity of the current situation and the hope for transformation through collective action and divine guidance.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com