By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s economic and social reforms, assuring the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) that while the journey is challenging, it is necessary for the nation’s long-term stability and prosperity.

The President made this statement on Friday in Abuja when he received a delegation of 20 Catholic bishops led by Most Reverend Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the Archbishop of Owerri and CBCN President.

Tinubu acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians are facing due to recent economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, but maintained that such reforms were essential to prevent national bankruptcy and secure the future of coming generations.

“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was tough for me, but it was a necessary decision. We cannot continue to mortgage our children’s future. Poverty knows no religion, and we must confront it together,” he stated.

The President underscored the importance of national unity, urging Nigerians to focus on collective development rather than religious divisions.

He assured the bishops that his administration was committed to inclusivity, stating, “I have no religious bias. My wife is a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. But beyond religion, we must prioritise national development. My doors remain open to you.”

Responding to the bishops’ request for the return of mission schools previously taken over by the government, Tinubu clarified that education falls under state jurisdiction.

However, he highlighted his record as Lagos State governor, where he returned such schools to their original owners.

Commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education and healthcare, Tinubu also highlighted his administration’s commitment to supporting students through the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

He assured the delegation that his government would explore ways to assist students in private institutions currently not covered by the fund.

On national security, the President expressed confidence that recent efforts were yielding positive results, with both Christians and Muslims benefiting from improved stability.

He pointed to increased investments, a resurgence in agricultural production, and competitive pricing in the petroleum sector as signs of economic recovery.

“There is hope. Investors are returning, and the world is seeing Nigeria in a new light. What seemed like a tough beginning is now showing promise. We are not even at half-time yet, and I am grateful for your prayers and support,” Tinubu said.

Archbishop Ugorji, speaking on behalf of the CBCN, congratulated the President on his election victory and praised his administration’s reform agenda.

He noted that the Holy Father, Pope Francis, had declared 2025 as the “Jubilee Year of Hope,” aligning with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope mantra.

While acknowledging the necessity of economic reforms, the bishops urged the government to intensify efforts to alleviate hardship and enhance national security.

The bishops also called for a clearer role of religion in fostering unity rather than division, suggesting that the government step away from financing religious pilgrimages to curb waste and corruption.

“Religious groups should take full responsibility for organising pilgrimages. Public funds should be redirected towards pressing national needs,” Ugorji stated.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, who was present at the meeting, reinforced the government’s position that economic hardships accompanying reforms are temporary.

He highlighted significant improvements in national security, including safer travel routes and greater access to farmlands, as evidence of progress.

“A year ago, travelling from Abuja to Kaduna was nearly impossible due to insecurity. Today, that is no longer the case. While challenges remain, we have made notable progress,” he said.

Mohammed also revealed that the government would soon launch the National Value Charter, as outlined in Tinubu’s 2025 New Year message, to promote moral and civic education in schools.

National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu was also in attendance, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to national stability and security.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to collaboration between the government and religious leaders in addressing national challenges.