Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have commended the Federal Government for the recent agreement reached with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), describing it as a long-awaited step capable of restoring stability to Nigeria’s education sector.
The bishops made this known in a communiqué issued after their meeting held from January 19 to 20, 2026, at the Jubilee Conference Centre, Ibadan.
They described the signing of the agreement—coming after sixteen years of repeated strikes, failed negotiations and disruptions in the university system—as a noble gesture that deserves unreserved commendation.
According to the bishops, the agreement, alongside interventions such as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), should be closely monitored and fully implemented to prevent a recurrence of strikes and the attendant stress on students, lecturers and families.
They further urged the Federal Government to extend similar support mechanisms to private and mission universities, noting that such institutions also play a critical role in training future leaders.
Beyond industrial harmony, the bishops called for increased emphasis on entrepreneurship and skills development within the education sector, while also urging a thorough review of policies such as the National Policy on Almajiri Education to eliminate bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
On insecurity, the Catholic leaders expressed support for the Federal Government’s renewed determination to address security challenges, stressing that when political will is demonstrated, insecurity can be significantly reduced.
They emphasized the need for adequate funding, proper equipping of security agencies and continuous training of personnel, while urging Nigerians to unite in efforts to restore peace across the country. The bishops also stressed that the equal application of the law without fear or favour remains crucial to the success of ongoing security operations.
On tax reforms, the bishops acknowledged the importance of fiscal reforms aimed at improving accountability but urged authorities to implement the measures with compassion and sensitivity.
They called on the government and tax authorities to intensify public enlightenment on the benefits of the reforms, particularly for the poor and less privileged, and to allow the most vulnerable Nigerians adequate time to adapt to the new tax regime.
The Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province comprises the Ibadan Archdiocese and the dioceses of Ilorin, Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti and Osogbo.
The communiqué was signed by Most Rev. ‘Leke Gabriel Abegunrin, Chairman, and Most Rev. John Akin Oyejola, Secretary.
