President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the country without ceasing, adding that the insecurity situation and hardship being experienced is for a short period of time.
Tinubu said this on Sunday, February 18, at the opening Session of the 2024 First Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja.
He told the bishops that the country is relying on their unwavering encouragement of the Nigerian populace.
The president said the Church’s engagement with Nigerians on matters of faith enriches the government’s responsiveness and strengthens the national fabric.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Goerge Akume said: “The season of Lent is an apt time to host this critical meeting as it is a period of profound reflection, prayer, fasting, and charitable giving which coincides with a challenging period of economic hardship in our nation which we are working to reverse as mentioned above While bold economic reforms have been undertaken by this administration, resulting in short-term hardships, they are borne out of a deep-seated commitment to Nigeria’s long- term prosperity and stability.
“This administration inherited a daunting economic landscape, necessitating decisive action to alter our nation’s downward trajectory. With unwavering dedication, we are striving towards a prosperous, healthy, and globally competitive Nigeria. Given the critical situation, now more than ever before we must remain steadfast, renewing our faith in God’s provision and protection.
“Amidst adversity, we must remain resolute, renewing our faith in God’s providence and walking in love as we support one another. This administration is steadfast in its resolve to enhance security, bolster the economy, and create opportunities for all Nigerians. We acknowledge the various hardships affecting nations across the world precipitated and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the escalating cost of living crisis. However, we draw strength from our collective hope and diligent efforts of government-private sector, religious organizations and others, trusting that through God’s grace, better days lie ahead.
“As spiritual leaders, My Lord Bishops, we rely on your unwavering encouragement to the Nigerian populace your commitment to upholding integrity, offering sound counsel, and fostering constructive dialogue is deeply appreciated by the government. The Church’s engagement with Nigerians on matters of faith enriches our responsiveness and strengthens our national fabric.
“Both church and government are aligned in our shared commitment of a brighter future for all Nigerians. Through strategic policies, well-thought-out initiatives, and investments, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration aims to drive economic transformation, ensure security, enhance food production, harness natural resources, develop critical infrastructure, improve social services, foster economic diversification, and enhance governance efficiency. These efforts are geared towards building a prosperous, secure, and inclusive Nigeria for all.
“Although the economic hardship and security challenges may seem daunting, let us continue to encourage one another in the Lord and pray without ceasing. Likewise, let us remember Galatians 6:9 which reminds us “not to become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
President of the CBCN Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji said the reform agenda of the present administration has added to the plight of the citizens.
He said with the end of the fuel subsidy regime and the unification of the foreign exchange market, there has been a significant increase in the pump price of petroleum products and a steep decline in the value of the naira.
The Bishop said high-spiraling inflation has made it difficult for the average Nigerian to access basic commodities, including food items and medication
He said: “The reform agenda of the present government has added to the plight of Nigerians. With the withdrawal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market, there has been a sharp increase in the pump price of petroleum products and a steep decline in the value of the naira. Indeed, there is a free fall in the national currency.
“As a result of the government’s reform agenda, millions of Nigerians have been reduced to a life of grinding poverty, wanton suffering, and untold hardship as never before in our national history.
“In a bid to survive, an increasing number of the poor have resorted to begging. With more than 80 million Nigerians living below the poverty line of less than two dollars a day, our country, according to the recent disclosure of the World Bank, is the world’s second-largest poor population after India.
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