The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, has expressed significant concern over President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, stating they have exacerbated the hardships faced by Nigerians.
Speaking at the 2024 Second Plenary Assembly in Auchi, Edo State, Ugorji criticized the current economic reforms as inadequate and harmful. He suggested a return to a regional system of government to curb corruption and improve governance.
Ugorji highlighted that the current federal system is costly and prone to corruption, advocating for a more decentralized approach, either by reverting to the previous regional system or devolving power to the six geopolitical zones. He also addressed Nigeria’s worsening debt situation, with a recent $2.25 billion World Bank loan, and other pressing issues like multiple taxation, hunger, and insecurity.
In his homily, Bishop Gabriel Dunia urged leaders to serve rather than dominate and emphasized that prayer and fasting could address Nigeria’s challenges, reassuring that God hears the nation’s prayers. The bishops, gathered in Auchi, are committed to praying for the country’s improvement and divine intervention.