The Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have called for renewed efforts to sustain hope, improve security, and tackle food insecurity in Nigeria.
In a communiqué issued after their first meeting of the year at the Jubilee Conference Centre, Oke Ado, Ibadan, the bishops emphasized the need for transformative leadership and urgent action to address the country’s pressing challenges.
The meeting, which brought together bishops from Ibadan Archdiocese, Ilorin, Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti, and Osogbo Dioceses, focused on the theme of the Jubilee Year of Hope as declared by Pope Francis. The bishops urged Nigerians to embrace hope despite challenges such as poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship. They stressed that faith and positive action would help overcome national difficulties.
Public security was a key concern, with the bishops commending political leaders for maintaining relative peace in recent years. However, they warned against complacency, highlighting the resurgence of herdsmen attacks, kidnappings, and robberies in parts of Yorubaland. They called on governors and security agencies in the Southwest to intensify efforts in intelligence gathering and crime prevention to ensure the safety of citizens.
Food security also featured prominently in the discussions, with the bishops expressing concern over rising hunger and the high cost of food. They noted that despite the government’s promises of economic improvement, millions of Nigerians still struggle to afford basic necessities.
The bishops urged greater investment in agriculture, youth involvement in farming, and price stabilization measures to ensure that every Nigerian has access to affordable food.
The communiqué also addressed the role of the media in nation-building, urging journalists to balance their reporting by highlighting both positive and negative aspects of national affairs. The bishops called for an end to media suppression by the government and security agencies, emphasizing that a free press is essential for democracy and national progress.
Furthermore, the bishops stressed the need for transformative leadership in Nigeria, lamenting the persistent issues of corruption, poor governance, and declining moral values. They called for leadership training programs that promote integrity, accountability, and ethical governance, particularly among young Nigerians. The Church pledged to continue mentoring and educating young people to become responsible and value-driven leaders.
The communiqué also referenced President Bola Tinubu’s proposed National Youth Conference, urging the government to ensure transparency in selecting participants. They emphasized that the conference should not be a mere political gesture but a genuine platform for young people to contribute ideas for national development.
In conclusion, the bishops urged Nigerians to become agents of hope by supporting one another and working towards a more just and prosperous nation. They encouraged citizens to embrace the values of service, solidarity, and compassion, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The communiqué was signed by Most Rev. Gabriel Leke Abegunrin, Chairman of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province, and Most Rev. John Akin Oyejola, Secretary
