Culture Government

JOURNEYING TOGETHER FOR THE COMMON GOOD IN THE CHURCH AND OUR NATION

 

A Communiqué issued at the end of the First Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja, 16 to 22 February, 2024

PREAMBLE
We, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, held our First Plenary Meeting for the year at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja, from 16 to 22 February, 2024. Having prayerfully reflected on the theme: Synod on Synodality: Areas of Concern for the Church in Nigeria as well as on the situation of our country, we issue this Communiqué:

THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY: OUR JOURNEY SO FAR
The Church is no stranger to synods, which have their roots in the early Christian Community. The word Synod from which synodality is derived conveys the idea of a journey undertaken together, listening to the Holy Spirit and to the voices of all segments of the faithful, where decisions are made collectively, dialogue promoted, and active participation encouraged. The first part of the Synod on Synodality for the Universal Church, was held at the Vatican from 4 to 29 October 2023. It was an enriching and engaging experience within the Church. The second part will be held in October 2024.

Synodality is an expression of the nature of the Church as communion. It obliges us as Church to walk together within the Apostolic Tradition which without ignoring the signs of the times takes cognizance of what has been held as the Deposit of Faith, always, everywhere and by all.

There is no doubt that the way the Church is run in most parishes and dioceses in Nigeria bear laudable marks of Synodality such as Parish Pastoral Councils, Presbyteral Councils, and College of Consultors. Also there is the active participation of the different sodalities and other lay organizations in the life of the Church. Nevertheless, there is the need to strengthen these Institutions by promoting the principles of listening and dialogue. In fidelity to the Deposit of Faith, we renew our call on Priests to cultivate greater respect for the liturgical norms and avoid abuses, in celebrating the Eucharist and other sacraments. A Synodal Church, no doubt, generates healthy citizens who, in turn, work for the promotion of the dignity of the human person and the development of the Country.

FIDUCIA SUPPLICANS: SOME CLARIFICATIONS
The Declaration by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Fiducia Supplicans (on the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings) has generated a lot of controversies. Many Episcopal Conferences have taken their position on this document. We re-affirm the age long teaching of the Church on the Sacrament of Marriage as a union between one man and one-woman Code of Canon Law, Canon 1055); Catechism of the Catholic Church, N. 2335). We reject the reading of the Declaration that suggests that Priests could bless same-sex couples or other couples in irregular situations such as those of polygamists, and the divorce and remarried, in a way that legitimizes such unions.

We, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria affirm our loyalty to the teaching of Christ and the Holy Father the Pope. As we have already stated as Conference and as part of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), we reiterate that Priests are not to bless samesex couples in Nigeria. Homosexual acts are acts of grave depravity which are intrinsically disordered and, above all, contrary to natural law (Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:31; Matthew 19:5-6); CCC. N. 2357)

SITUATION OF THE NATION
We express strong solidarity with our people who are suffering in the seriously deteriorating situation of the nation, especially in the areas of security and economy.

Insecurity has attained yet a higher scale than we had ever seen before in the land. Insurgents, armed herdsmen, bandits, and the so-called unknown gunmen have continued to unleash terror in different parts of the country. Kidnapping for ransom has reached homes and areas where in the pass it was thought impossible. The result is that many have fled their homes, abandoned their farms, shops, businesses and other sources of livelihood. The number of internally-displaced persons in our country is ever growing. We are making yet another passionate appeal to Government to act immediately to stem the tide. The legitimacy of government depends on its capacity to protect life and property.

Our worsening economy has continued to make living hard and difficult for our people who have been subjected to a life of grinding poverty, continuing hunger and untold hardship. The situation is worsened by the high unemployment rate in the country, which has further impoverished and degraded our citizens.

We note the efforts of the Federal Government in addressing some of our key economic problems. While we understand the reasons behind some of the reforms, it is our view that some of these policies seem not to have been properly thought through and as such the outcomes seem to fall short of expectations. For instance, while the fuel subsidy removal was meant to help improve government’s revenue which has been the case across the three levels of government, the impact on Nigerians has been debilitating. Similarly, we note that the decision to “float the Naira” has had unintended negative and harsh consequences. In the light of this, we urge government to urgently address the increasing disaffection and restiveness spreading across the population, in order to avoid a descent into chaos and anarchy.

Way Forward

Promoting social cohesion and good governance
In view of government’s effort to end insecurity, we recommend that the ongoing discussion about the creation of State Police be carefully studied. Furthermore, government ought to assess the impact of all other already existing security outfit in this regard.

Given the diminishing purchasing power of the Nigerian currency, and the capacity of agriculture to be the bedrock of our survival, we urge government to create the necessary and conducive environment that would enable our people to return to their farms.

We commend government’s decision to transfer some items, such as electricity and railways, from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. We urge that this be extended to such other areas of the economy like mining. These measures, along with transparency and accountability in governance, are some of the factors that promote social cohesion.

We enjoin government at all levels to establish small scale industries in the rural areas to increase productivity and reduce unemployment. It would be helpful if such industries are agro based.

The Media play a critical role in nation building. They have the capacity to inform, enlighten and guide the government and citizens on important matters of governance, citizenship and patriotism. They also act as watchdogs for good governance. Rather than seek to repress or intimidate the media, we call on government and other relevant authorities to help the media perform their role responsibly and optimally. To this end, we recommend that the fundamental rights of media workers be respected. We equally advocate for the responsible use of the mainstream and social media by all.

b)Journeying Together
We enjoin government to open up to the contribution of all segments and levels of the Nigerian community, so that together we can face the emergency situation in which we now find ourselves. It is no longer acceptable for our leaders to surround themselves only with their political supporters and cronies. The general elections and determination of petitions are now over. It is time to run government for the common good. The nation needs to leave all polarizations behind and come together in unity and cohesion. We have both the natural and human resources to get this done. But those now in political power owe the nation the duty to create the enabling environment for all capable Nigerians to participate in the task of national rebirth. Politicians who are not in power and all other Nigerians now should be ready to offer their positive contribution, beyond all political party affiliation and sensitivity.

c) Hope in God and our Need for Repentance
In spite of the challenges facing our nation, we cannot give up hope. All is not lost. We have all it takes to rescue our nation. Our confidence is based on our trust in God and in our capability as a nation, with the grace of God in whom almost all Nigerians believe. Our prayers for Nigeria are not futile and should continue. Nevertheless, our trust in God must go hand in hand with our human efforts. Religious leaders should promote sincere and genuine godliness and righteousness in their religious communities, upholding among their followership honesty and hard work and condemning corruption in all its forms, in both private and public life. We equally call on the entire Nigerian elite including professionals, business people, and financial operators, many of whom have for long benefited from the corrupt system to repent and change their attitude of greed and selfishness. Furthermore, civil servants and public office holders, who have not been running our public institutions with honesty and rectitude, need to change their ways. As the government demands additional sacrifice from the citizens, one expects to see a drastic cut in the cost of running government at all levels. We urge all to have a sincere change of heart. Nonetheless, we call on government to prosecute crime and criminality wherever they are found. We commend those who have been trying to behave well against all odds, and encourage them not to give up.

 

 

NEWS FROM THE CHURCH
We acknowledge God’s bountiful blessings on the Church in Nigeria as we thank the Holy Father, Pope Francis for the following appointments: Most Reverend Gerald Mamman Musa as the bishop of the newly created Diocese of Katsina the ceremony took place on the 12 December, 2023; Most Rev. Habila Tyiakwonaboi Daboh as the Bishop of Zaria Diocese the ceremony took place on the 14 December, 2023; Most Rev. Anselm Pendo Lawani as the Bishop of Ilorin Diocese the ceremony took place on the 2 February, 2024. We are equally grateful to the Holy Father, Pope Francis for the appointment of Most Rev. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi as Auxiliary Bishop of Ahiara Diocese. His episcopal ordination took place on the 19 December, 2023 and the recent appointment of Rt Rev. Msgr Thomas Ifeanyichukwu Obiatuegwu as Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu diocese. His Episcopal Ordination comes up on 20 March, 2024. May the Church of Christ continue to flourish in our country. We rejoice with the Dioceses of Minna, Abakaliki and Issele-Uku for the Golden Jubilee of their erection. We pray for a more fruitful pastoral life in these Dioceses, while we thank God for the achievement.

We congratulate the Pan African Episcopal Committee for Social Communication for the 50th Anniversary of its establishment which held from 18 to 21 November, 2023 at Lumen Christi Retreat and Media Centre, Lekki – Lagos. May the fruits of the celebration continue to animate our pastoral life in the Church and society. We thank the Archdiocese of Lagos for hosting the event on behalf of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria.

In Prayer, we look forward to the International Eucharistic Congress holding in Quito, Ecuador from 8-15 September, 2024.

CONCLUSION: STARTING AFRESH WITH GOD
The season of Lent affords us the opportunity to start afresh with God as individuals, as Church and as a nation. This holy season draws our attention to reparation, reconciliation and sanctification. In prayer, we deepen our relationship with the God. In fasting and abstinence, we discipline our bodies, deny ourselves of legitimate pleasure and yield our bodies to the direction of the Spirit. In almsgiving, we demonstrate our concern for the needy and the less privileged. By so doing, our synodality as a Church and as a nation becomes strengthened and impactful.

As we commit ourselves to the Lenten observances we pray: may your love be upon us O Lord as we place all our hope in you (Ps 33:22). May our Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of hope and of all consolation continue to intercede for us. Amen

 

 

+ Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji
Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese
President, CBCN.

+Donatus A. Ogun, OSA Bishop of Uromi Diocese Secretary, CBCN.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

You may also like

Business Economy Finance Fintech

SANEF’s Uche Uzoebo Highlights AI as Next Frontier in Advancement of Financial Inclusion

post-image

With progress made in accelerating financial inclusion to unbanked and underbanked communities in Nigeria, the Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities Limited (SANEF) has posited Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the next step to advancement in financial services in the country.

Speaking at the just concluded Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 2.0), Uche Uzoebo (Mrs.), MD/CEO, SANEF Limited, noted that as technology evolves rapidly within the financial ecosystem, Financial Inclusion must continue to be at the center of the nation’s progress.

According to her, agent banking has been a game-changer in expanding financial inclusion across Nigeria. “By deploying agents in underserved areas, we have brought financial services and banking products such as account opening, cash in, cash out, bill payment, transfers and other services closer to the unbanked and underserved.”

With the Agent Banking model, SANEF has bridged critical gaps by reducing the need for long queues…

Read More
Business Economy

“You Can Reinvent Yourself in Just Four Years,” Says Moppet Foods CEO Roberta Edu Oyedokun

post-image

Mrs. Roberta Edu Oyedokun, CEO of Moppet Baby Food Firm in Lagos, has shared an inspiring personal revelation about career transformation and self-development. While drafting a professional profile recently, she realized how much her career had evolved in just four years—a testament, she says, to the power of consistency and resilience.

In her reflection, Mrs. Oyedokun highlighted her current achievements: driving Moppet Foods’ expansion into major retail chains, securing government-backed partnerships with Community Health Centers, and forging alliances with NGOs. She also serves as an Ambassador for the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme, advocating for family health access.

What struck her, however, was the absence of any mention of her previous decade-long experience in engineering, technology, media, and production. “Imagine if I didn’t have a profile before now,” she mused. “Yet, in my 30s, I built this resounding profile in just four years.”

Addressing those who might doubt such rapid transformation, she…

Read More
Business Economy

MENXTT TECHNOLOGY NG TRANSFORMS THE NIGERIAN SME LANDSCAPE WITH SMART IT SUPPORT, DIGITAL PRESENCE, AND DEVICE REPAIRS

post-image

In the heart of Nigeria’s commercial capital, Ikeja, a technology-driven force is steadily redefining how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operate, communicate, and scale. Menxtt Technology NG, a proudly Nigerian-owned tech solutions provider, is delivering cutting-edge yet affordable IT support, digital marketing, website deployment, and device repair services to SMEs across the country.

From building strategic web assets that attract clients, to managing digital footprints on social platforms, to extending the life cycle of smartphones and laptops through expert repair services, Menxtt Technology NG is proving that cost-effective tech solutions don’t have to compromise on quality.

Bridging the Digital Divide for SMEs

The operational challenges faced by SMEs in Nigeria are enormous—high costs of tech deployment, inadequate in-house IT staff, unreliable online visibility, and recurring device breakdowns. These…

Read More
Business Travels Trends

Abia Government Unveils Modern Number One Roundabout on Port Harcourt Road, Aba

post-image

The Abia State Government today unveiled significant upgrades to Port Harcourt Road in Aba, capped by the completion of the new Number One Roundabout constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC. The project forms part of Governor Dr. Alex Otti’s broader modernization drive for the state’s commercial hub.

Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport explained that the roundabout incorporates contemporary engineering design, durable paving materials and landscaped green spaces to improve traffic flow and enhance civic aesthetics. Although some residents have compared its design unfavorably to more elaborate international models shared on social media, authorities maintain that the structure’s unique features reflect local context and long‑term maintenance needs.

Port Harcourt Road, long plagued by potholes and poor drainage, underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation under the Otti administration beginning in late 2024. Over three kilometres of carriageway have been reconstructed, with new drainage systems, pedestrian sidewalks and street lighting installed along the…

Read More
Business Culture Economy Society Technology Technology Trends

NCC and NEMA Join Forces to Make Emergency Response Faster, Smarter, and More Human-Centered

post-image

In a heartfelt meeting held at the headquarters of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), two of Nigeria’s key institutions came together with one shared goal: to save lives through better communication.

Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, warmly received Mrs. Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), as both leaders led conversations about a stronger, more connected Nigeria—especially in times of crisis.

For a country as large and complex as Nigeria, emergency situations—floods, accidents, natural disasters—can strike without warning. When they do, timely and accurate information can mean the difference between life and death. That’s why this meeting wasn’t just routine protocol; it was a pivotal step toward giving Nigerians a safer future.

At the heart of their conversation was the plan to develop a

Read More
Business Culture Economy

VP Shettima Inaugurates Interministerial Committee to Drive Nigeria’s Innovation Economy

post-image

 In a strategic move to position Nigeria as a global innovation hub and achieve a trillion-dollar economy within the next decade, Vice President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated the Interministerial Committee on Research and Innovation. The inauguration ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Speaking during the event, Vice President Shettima emphasized the committee’s mandate to champion food security, energy sufficiency, and a reduction in the country’s dependence on imports. He noted that the initiative is a critical component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision to harness both intellectual and financial capital to propel Nigeria’s economic transformation.

“This is not merely the inauguration of a committee,” the Vice President said, “but the activation of a bold mission: to build Nigeria into an innovation-driven, trillion-dollar economy within a decade. The future we desire is not something we inherit; it…

Read More
Business Economy Finance Fintech

PAFON 2.0: Experts Highlight Ingredients for Accelerated Financial Inclusion in Nigeria

post-image

 

Improved efforts at collaboration among financial service providers, telecommunication operators, and tech Startups, with conscious effort geared at consumer awareness, have been proffered as key remedies to the challenge of financial inclusion in the country.

This is the viewpoint of stakeholders that gathered for the second edition of Payment Forum Nigeria (PAFON 2.0) held recently in Lagos.

Delivering a keynote address on the theme, “Bridging the Customer Experience Gap for Financial Inclusion Using AI”, Ebehijie Momoh (Mrs.), the managing director and chief executive officer of AfriGoPay Financial Services Limited, said that with 64% of Nigerian adults being financial included the country has made immense progress in that regards.

She said that between 2012 till date, the country has recorded robust regulatory reforms, especially the launch of the Bank Verification Number (BVN) in 2014 making it easier to identify and track customers across different banks.

“This initiative enhanced the credibility of the financial sector…

Read More
Business Culture Entertainment

Premier Records Celebrates 62 Years of Musical Excellence and Cultural Legacy

post-image

One of Africa’s most iconic music labels, Premier Records Limited, is proudly celebrating its 62nd anniversary, marking over six decades of shaping Nigeria’s soundscape and preserving its rich musical heritage.

Founded in 1963, Premier Records has remained a trailblazer in the African music industry, championing artistic excellence, innovation, and cultural preservation. According to Michael Odiong, a senior executive at the label, “62 and still counting!” — a testament to the brand’s enduring influence and unwavering commitment to music.

As the third-oldest record label in Africa, Premier Records boasts a legacy that spans generations, having supported and promoted a diverse range of genres from highlife and afrobeat to gospel, hip hop, and contemporary sounds.

The label’s deep catalog of timeless recordings, alongside a forward-looking vision, continues to inspire both budding and established artists. Through strategic investments in talent development and genre diversity, Premier Records has ensured that every voice finds a platform and…

Read More