The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has expressed concern over the country’s worsening economic crisis, including rising hardship, insecurity, and youth unemployment, despite recent government reforms.
The bishops highlighted increasing poverty, food inflation, kidnappings, and poor prison conditions, calling for urgent action from the government to address these issues.
This warning was issued at the CBCN’s First Plenary Meeting of 2025 in Abuja, attended by religious leaders, including CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama.
They urged the government to address the root causes of economic hardship and insecurity, emphasizing that millions of Nigerians are suffering from poverty and fear.
Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged some reforms, such as road rehabilitation and debt reduction, he stressed that food inflation (39.84%) and widespread poverty (129 million Nigerians) are overwhelming many families, and temporary relief programs are insufficient.
“While we recognize the government’s efforts in implementing certain reforms, the reality is that many Nigerians are facing greater struggles than ever before. Food inflation has soared to 39.84 percent, making it nearly impossible for families to afford three meals a day.
“Alarmingly, 129 million Nigerians are now living in multidimensional poverty. Temporary relief programs are insufficient; we need long-term solutions to tackle the root causes of economic hardship,” Ugorji said.
The bishops also condemned the rising insecurity, with frequent attacks by Boko Haram, bandits, and kidnappers, even targeting religious leaders like Fr. Philip Ekweli and Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu. Ugorji called on the government to intensify security measures and invest in intelligence and resources for protection.
Youth unemployment, affecting 53% of Nigeria’s young population, was another major concern. The bishops warned that joblessness is driving youth into crime, including internet fraud and armed robbery, and urged the government to invest in job creation and vocational training.
Archbishop Ugorji expressed sorrow over the situation, urging the government to prioritize job creation and youth engagement to prevent further unrest.
The bishops also criticized the deplorable state of Nigeria’s prisons, where most inmates are awaiting trial. They called for judicial reforms, improved infrastructure, and expanded rehabilitation programs.
Archbishop Okoh emphasized the need for national healing, warning that the gap between the rich and poor is widening, which could lead to greater chaos if not addressed.
Archbishop Kaigama called for policies to alleviate poverty and inflation, while also urging Nigerians to embrace values like honesty, integrity, and community support.
