President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that while his economic reforms may be tough, they are necessary to build a resilient nation and secure the future of generations to come. He made this statement on Friday in Abuja while addressing the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
Acknowledging the hardship caused by his administration’s policies, President Tinubu emphasized that citizens and leaders must invest in the country to create a strong and prosperous society. He highlighted that poverty has no religious divide and urged Nigerians to unite in tackling economic challenges. Speaking on tax reforms, he encouraged citizens to view them as an opportunity to contribute to nation-building.
“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was a tough decision, but it was necessary. We were spending the investment meant for our children’s future. Poverty does not recognize religion; it affects everyone. We must fight it together,” President Tinubu stated.
The bishops also raised concerns over the return of mission schools that had been taken over by the government. In response, President Tinubu clarified that these institutions fall under state jurisdiction, not the Federal Government. However, he referenced his tenure as Lagos State Governor, where he returned mission schools to their original owners.
Commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education and healthcare, the President reassured the bishops of his commitment to ensuring that no student drops out due to financial constraints. He pointed to the establishment of NELFUND, a student loan initiative, and expressed willingness to explore ways to assist students in private institutions.
Addressing national security, President Tinubu stressed that his administration is making significant strides in tackling insecurity across the country. He noted that both Christians and Muslims are affected by insecurity and reaffirmed his stance against religious bias.
“I have no religious bias; I will never be a bigot. My wife is a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God. But above all, we must think about Nigeria. This nation must develop and stand beyond religious divisions. I have an open-door policy, and I am always ready to listen,” Tinubu affirmed.
The President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic trajectory, stating that competition in the petroleum sector, increased agricultural output, and lower commodity prices are signs of progress. He also highlighted growing foreign investments and a renewed sense of hope among Nigerians.
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“There is hope. Investors are showing confidence in Nigeria, and we are seeing positive changes. What started as a difficult journey is now yielding results. And we are not even at halftime yet,” he said.
Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of CBCN and leader of the 20-member delegation, congratulated President Tinubu on his victory and acknowledged his efforts to reposition the country. He noted that the Catholic Church shares the administration’s vision of “Renewed Hope,” aligning it with Pope Francis’ declaration of 2025 as the Jubilee Year of Hope.
While commending tax reforms, Ugorji pointed out the struggles caused by subsidy removal and called for intensified security efforts to restore public confidence. He also urged the government to foster unity through religious tolerance and ensure that faith remains a force for moral integrity rather than division.
On religious pilgrimages, the bishops called for an end to government sponsorship, citing waste and corruption. They suggested that religious bodies should take full responsibility for organizing pilgrimages while public funds should be redirected to pressing national needs.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, who was present at the meeting, backed the President’s stance, emphasizing that temporary hardships are part of any major reform. He highlighted security improvements, particularly in areas like Abuja-Kaduna, where travel is now safer than before.
Mohammed also announced the upcoming launch of the National Value Charter, a key initiative from President Tinubu’s 2025 New Year message, aimed at restoring Nigeria’s lost values. He added that the National Orientation Agency is working on integrating Bible and Quran teachings in schools while reintroducing civic education.
Also in attendance was National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, alongside other key government officials.
