The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised concerns over the worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and youth unemployment in the country, warning that the situation has reached alarming levels despite ongoing government reforms.
The bishops issued the warning during their 2025 First Plenary Meeting held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) in Abuja. The event was attended by religious leaders, including CBCN President and Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji; Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh; and Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama.
Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged some government initiatives, such as road rehabilitation and the student loan scheme, but stressed that Nigerians are struggling more than ever. He cited the country’s rising food inflation, which has hit 39.84 percent, and the fact that 129 million Nigerians now live in multidimensional poverty.
“Palliatives and temporary relief programmes are not enough. We need sustainable solutions that address the root causes of economic hardship,” Ugorji said.
The bishops also condemned the growing insecurity, with violent attacks and kidnappings on the rise. Ugorji pointed to the recent abduction of Fr. Philip Ekweli and a major seminarian, as well as the killing of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, as examples of the worsening crisis.
“Our nation is under siege. Criminals operate with seeming impunity, and even men of God are not spared. The government must step up security efforts and provide the necessary tools for our security forces to protect lives and property,” he stated.
Youth unemployment, currently at 53 percent, was another major concern. The bishops warned that widespread joblessness was pushing many young people into crime and illegal migration. They urged the government to invest in vocational training and job creation initiatives to curb the crisis.
Archbishop Okoh called for urgent national reflection and economic transformation, warning that Nigeria is at a breaking point.
“Our people are suffering like never before. Families must choose between feeding their children and paying school fees. If urgent action is not taken, we risk deeper chaos,” he said.
The bishops also condemned the deplorable state of Nigeria’s prisons, where 60 to 90 percent of inmates are awaiting trial. They called for judicial reforms and improved prison infrastructure to align with global human rights standards.
Archbishop Kaigama criticized the deepening economic crisis, warning that prolonged hardship could lead to increased social unrest. He also urged a cultural shift away from materialism and corruption, calling on Nigerians to embrace honesty, integrity, and community support.
