The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained engagement with stakeholders in addressing key national concerns, including security, social welfare, education, youth development and economic empowerment, as part of efforts to build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
According to an official signed statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Yomi Odunuga, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, gave the assurance while addressing the National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), held from June 17 to 18, 2026.
Senator Akume said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognises the legitimate concerns of Christians and other Nigerians regarding security, equal opportunities, freedom of worship, access to justice and participation in national development.
He stated that the government remains committed to strengthening institutions that protect fundamental rights, uphold the rule of law and promote social inclusion.
“We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders in addressing concerns relating to security, social welfare, education, youth development and economic empowerment,” the SGF assured.
The SGF reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining an environment that enables the Christian community to continue making meaningful contributions to national development. He noted that Christians have played significant roles in education, healthcare delivery, humanitarian services and community development across the country.
Expressing confidence in the outcome of the NEC meeting, Senator Akume said its deliberations would generate practical recommendations capable of strengthening national unity, promoting peace, advancing Christian welfare and supporting Nigeria’s broader development goals.
He described CAN as a respected voice of conscience that has consistently advocated justice, peace, equity, national unity, good governance and the welfare of Christians in Nigeria.
According to the SGF, the NEC meeting serves as CAN’s highest decision-making platform, offering an opportunity for reflection, strategic engagement and collective action on issues affecting the Church, the nation and humanity.
Senator Akume acknowledged that Nigeria, like many nations around the world, continues to grapple with challenges arising from global economic uncertainties, security concerns, climate-related pressures, inflation, youth unemployment and social tensions.
Despite these challenges, he said Nigeria has continued to demonstrate resilience and hope, stressing that the Tinubu administration remains focused on implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda to build a stronger and more prosperous nation.
He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at stabilising the economy, improving infrastructure, enhancing food security, creating jobs, expanding social investment programmes, attracting investments and strengthening national security.
While acknowledging that some of the reforms have required sacrifices from citizens, Senator Akume maintained that the government remains committed to ensuring that the long-term benefits translate into improved living standards, greater economic opportunities and sustainable development for all Nigerians.
The SGF also underscored the role of the Church in nation-building, describing the Christian faith as a powerful force for moral transformation, social justice, education, healthcare delivery, community development and humanitarian service.
He commended churches across the country for operating schools, hospitals, orphanages, rehabilitation centres and other charitable initiatives that complement government efforts in promoting human development and social welfare.
Senator Akume further reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining constructive engagement with CAN and other faith-based organisations on issues affecting national cohesion, security, religious freedom, education, youth empowerment, poverty alleviation and social justice.
He emphasised that sustainable national development requires collaboration among government, religious bodies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens.
The SGF also urged Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence, stressing that the nation’s ethnic, cultural and religious diversity should remain a source of strength and enrichment rather than division.
He commended Christian and Muslim leaders for promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence, while urging religious leaders to continue serving as ambassadors of peace, reconciliation and national unity.
Senator Akume called on the Church to continue praying for the nation and its leaders and encouraged citizens to uphold the values of integrity, patriotism, compassion, accountability and responsible citizenship.
He expressed appreciation to the leadership of CAN for the invitation to participate in the NEC meeting and prayed for continued peace, progress and prosperity for Nigeria.
