The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria has called for stronger action against insecurity, poverty, weak infrastructure and poor governance, warning that these problems continue to undermine the welfare of Nigerians and the country’s development.
The bishops made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of their Second Plenary Meeting held in Ede, Osun State.
They also declared December 8, 2026 as a National Day of Prayer and fasting for the success of the 2027 general election.
The communiqué was signed by CBCN President and Archbishop of Kaduna Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso and Secretary Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo, Bishop of Abeokuta.
The bishops acknowledged efforts by government and citizens to maintain national unity but said insecurity, poverty and poor public services remained serious concerns.
They expressed alarm over killings, kidnapping, banditry, illegal mining and theft of natural resources.
The conference also condemned attacks on schools and places of worship, as well as the abduction and killing of students and worshippers.
The bishops said displacement caused by violence had forced large numbers of Nigerians into internally displaced persons camps.
They urged the Federal Government to intensify security efforts and create conditions that would allow displaced communities to return safely to their homes.
The CBCN called for stronger security institutions, better intelligence gathering and the prosecution of people responsible for violent crimes.
The bishops also commented on proposals to decentralize policing.
They said any reorganization of the police should serve the common good and should not be manipulated for personal, ethnic, political or religious interests.
Ahead of the 2027 elections, the conference urged Nigerians to support credible democratic processes and said national prayer would form part of its response to the political season. The bishops’ communiqué represents the position of the Catholic hierarchy and adds to wider public debate over security, governance and electoral credibility
