President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that he understands their economic struggles but insists that ongoing reforms are necessary to secure the country’s future.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday while receiving the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Tinubu emphasized the need for national investment to foster economic resilience.
Tough Decisions for a Stronger Nigeria
Acknowledging the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidies, Tinubu defended the policy, saying it was a difficult but necessary choice.
“We were spending the investment meant for our children’s future. Poverty has no religious identity, it affects everyone. We must fight it together,” the President stated.
He also highlighted tax reforms as an opportunity for citizens to contribute to nation-building and called for collective efforts to strengthen the country.
Addressing Education and Security Concerns
Responding to calls for the return of mission schools, Tinubu clarified that such institutions fall under state jurisdiction but pointed out his past actions as Lagos State governor, where he returned mission schools to their original owners.
He commended the Catholic Church for its contributions to education and healthcare and mentioned the establishment of NELFUND, aimed at ensuring students do not drop out due to financial constraints.
On security, Tinubu reaffirmed that significant progress had been made in curbing threats.
“Insecurity affects both Christians and Muslims. I have no religious bias. My wife is a pastor, but we must put the country first and move beyond religious divides,” he said.
Bishops Urge Unity, Transparency in Governance
Leading the delegation of 20 bishops, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji congratulated Tinubu on his electoral victory and acknowledged his efforts to stabilize the nation.
He commended the government’s tax reforms, stating that they would generate long-term benefits. However, he urged for stronger measures to restore public confidence and ensure that religion promotes unity rather than division.
The bishops also called for an end to government-sponsored religious pilgrimages, advocating for public funds to be redirected toward pressing national needs.
Government Defends Reform Efforts
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, backed the administration’s policies, stating that all economic reforms come with temporary hardships.
He cited improvements in security, particularly along the once-dangerous Abuja-Kaduna highway, as proof of progress.
Meanwhile, the National Orientation Agency is working on a national value charter to restore civic values, including religious teachings in schools.
The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to dialogue with religious leaders while pushing forward with reforms aimed at economic recovery and national unity.
