AKUME: Tinubu to Strengthen Partnership With Catholic Bishops

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has disclosed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to deepen its engagement with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), faith-based organizations, civil society groups and other key stakeholders as part of efforts to tackle the country’s security, economic and social challenges.

Akume made the disclosure in a statement personally signed by him following public reactions to President Tinubu’s recent meeting with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.

He dismissed claims that the current administration was working toward establishing a one-party state, insisting that the Federal Government remains committed to Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system and the conduct of credible elections.

According to the SGF, the Tinubu administration welcomes constructive criticism and will continue to govern through dialogue, accountability and evidence-based policies.

He further stressed that the government respects the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as essential to sustaining democratic governance in Nigeria.

Akume revealed that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation would continue consultations with the Catholic Bishops, other religious organizations and relevant stakeholders to build consensus on issues affecting national development.

He noted that religious institutions, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, the private sector and ordinary citizens all have vital roles in promoting peace, unity and national progress.

According to him, many of Nigeria’s challenges require collaboration between government and non-governmental actors.

“Faith communities, traditional institutions, civil society, the private sector and citizens all have indispensable roles to play in promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and advancing national development. Constructive engagement between government and these institutions is therefore not only welcome but essential,” he said.

Akume described the Catholic Church as one of Nigeria’s major development partners, highlighting its contributions to education, healthcare, humanitarian services, peace-building and moral leadership.

He explained that President Tinubu’s meeting with the Catholic Bishops was open and productive, covering issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, education, public service delivery, electoral credibility, political pluralism and religious freedom.

The SGF added that both parties also acknowledged some of the administration’s achievements, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) program and recent security operations that secured the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.

On the economy, Akume admitted that many Nigerians were facing hardship but described the situation as a temporary consequence of reforms introduced to address long-standing structural challenges.

He maintained that the government’s economic policies are aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, rebuilding investor confidence, attracting investment and placing the nation on a path of sustainable growth.

Akume also highlighted several ongoing projects and initiatives of the Tinubu administration, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, nationwide road rehabilitation projects, agricultural support programs, electricity sector reforms and expanded social intervention schemes, all aimed at improving the living standards of Nigerians.

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