The federal government has said it will strengthen its engagement with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and other faith-based organisations as part of efforts to tackle the country’s security, economic and social challenges.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made this known in a statement personally signed on Wednesday, saying the administration of President Bola Tinubu recognises the vital role of religious institutions and other stakeholders in nation-building.
Akume noted that the government is committed to maintaining open channels of communication with the Catholic Bishops and other critical stakeholders, stressing that constructive dialogue remains essential to promoting peace, national unity and sustainable development.
He said discussions between the government and the Catholic Bishops covered key national issues, including insecurity, the economy, education, public service delivery, electoral integrity and religious freedom.
The SGF also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to democratic governance, insisting that the Federal Government neither supports nor seeks to establish a one-party state, while assuring Nigerians that the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would continue to be respected.
He further commended the Catholic Church for its longstanding contributions to national development and assured that the government would sustain consultations with the Bishops, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens in the search for lasting solutions to the nation’s challenges.
