By Nkechi Eze
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Catholic Church to advance national development, peace and social cohesion, describing the Church as a critical partner in Nigeria’s progress.
Akume made the pledge while delivering a goodwill message at the First Plenary Meeting of 2026 of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria held in Abuja on Sunday, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga.
Addressing Catholic bishops and clergy from across the country, the SGF described the plenary as a significant moment of reflection and pastoral direction not only for the Church but also for Nigeria as a whole.
He expressed appreciation to the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria for the invitation, noting that the gathering represented an important assembly of spiritual leaders whose influence extends beyond religious matters into national life.
According to Akume, the meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual and socio-economic realities confronting Nigerians at a critical period in the country’s history.
He acknowledged the Catholic Church’s longstanding contributions to Nigeria’s moral and developmental landscape, particularly through its extensive network of schools, hospitals and humanitarian institutions that serve millions of citizens, especially the poor and vulnerable.
The SGF noted that Nigeria is currently facing significant socio-economic and security challenges, with citizens yearning for peace, justice, economic stability and accountable leadership.
He commended the Church’s consistent advocacy for good governance, human dignity, national unity and the sanctity of life, describing its interventions through pastoral letters and communiqués as reflections of the nation’s conscience.
According to him, such pronouncements should be seen as patriotic contributions rooted in moral and spiritual responsibility rather than opposition to government.
Akume, who is also a Knight of St. John International, said the call to serve God and country faithfully aligns with the responsibilities of public office holders, stressing the need for governance to be guided not only by administrative efficiency but also by moral integrity.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, he said the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on promoting peace, interreligious harmony, youth empowerment and inclusive development.
He emphasised that justice, security of lives and property, and respect for human dignity are universal values that transcend political, ethnic and religious boundaries.
Akume also commended the Church’s role in promoting dialogue, reconciliation and interfaith cooperation, particularly at a time when insecurity and social divisions pose serious challenges to national unity.
“Let me assure you that the Government remains committed to policies aimed at economic reform, institutional strengthening, and social protection for the most vulnerable. We acknowledge that transformation requires patience, sacrifice, and collective effort. In this journey, the prayers and moral support of the Church are invaluable,” he said.
He further praised the bishops for their leadership and courage in guiding the faithful during difficult times.
“Your Eminence and Your Excellencies, I commend your steadfast leadership and courage. The burdens of shepherding God’s flock in these times are not light. Yet your resilience, unity, and fidelity to the Gospel continue to inspire hope among the faithful and the wider society,” Akume added.
He expressed hope that the deliberations of the plenary would produce resolutions that would strengthen evangelisation, deepen pastoral care and contribute meaningfully to national stability and sustainable development.
The SGF assured the bishops that the Federal Government remains committed to economic reforms, institutional strengthening and social protection programmes aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable.
He concluded by expressing optimism that the meeting would be fruitful and beneficial to both the Church and the nation, while reiterating the government’s readiness to work closely with faith-based institutions in building a more peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria.
