The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts to address insecurity, poverty, poor infrastructure and other challenges affecting the wellbeing and dignity of Nigerians.
The bishops made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of their Second Plenary Meeting for 2026, held from September 10 to 18 at Our Lady and St. Kizito Pastoral Centre, Oke-Gada, Ede, Osun State. The communiqué was signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso of Kaduna, and the Secretary, Bishop Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo of Abeokuta.
The bishops expressed concern over kidnapping, banditry, illegal mining, theft of natural resources and attacks on schools and places of worship, urging the government to strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering, recover territories occupied by criminal groups and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
They also called for stronger measures to reduce poverty, create employment opportunities, support local businesses and encourage private-sector participation. On infrastructure, the CBCN urged increased and transparent investment in roads, electricity, clean water and railway services, while appealing to citizens to protect public facilities from vandalism.
The bishops further urged governments to improve funding for education, describing quality education as essential to human development and peaceful coexistence. They also called for responsible and ethical use of technology and artificial intelligence, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections, while urging Nigerians to work towards free, fair and credible elections
