By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has warned that Nigeria’s economic hardship, insecurity, and youth unemployment have reached alarming levels despite recent government reforms.

The bishops expressed grave concern over rising poverty, food inflation, kidnappings, and the deplorable state of correctional facilities, calling for urgent and decisive action to address the crisis.

The warning came during the 2025 First Plenary Meeting of the CBCN, held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) in Abuja on Sunday.

The event was attended by top religious leaders, including Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and CBCN President; Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); and Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, Catholic Archbishop of Abuja.

They urged the government to tackle the root causes of economic hardship and insecurity, emphasizing that millions of Nigerians are suffering under extreme conditions of poverty and fear.

Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged some government economic and fiscal reforms, such as road rehabilitation, the student loan scheme, and debt servicing reduction. However, he maintained that these efforts have not significantly improved the daily lives of Nigerians, as inflation continues to rise and the cost of living becomes unaffordable for many.

“While we recognize the government’s efforts in implementing certain reforms, the reality remains that most Nigerians are struggling more than ever before.

“Food inflation has hit 39.84%, making it nearly impossible for families to afford three meals a day. The statistics are alarming—129 million Nigerians are now living in multidimensional poverty.

“Palliatives and temporary relief programs are not enough. We need sustainable solutions that address the root causes of economic hardship.”

The bishops also raised alarms over worsening insecurity, with violent attacks by Boko Haram, bandits, and unknown gunmen increasing nationwide. They noted that kidnappings for ransom have escalated, with religious leaders among the latest targets.




https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/nigerias-hardship-insecurity-worsening-catholic-bishops/