File: Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Elegbede Abiodun
… praised the church’s network of schools, hospitals, and humanitarian institutions, noting its contributions to education.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Catholic Church to advance national development, peace, and social cohesion.
The pledge was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, in a goodwill message delivered to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria during its First Plenary Meeting of 2026 in Abuja on Sunday.
This was contained in a statement issued via X by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga.
Describing the plenary as “a significant moment of reflection and pastoral direction for both the Church and the nation,” Akume commended the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria for the invitation and highlighted the church’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s moral, social, and developmental landscape.
He praised the church’s network of schools, hospitals, and humanitarian institutions, noting its contributions to education, healthcare, and service to the poor and vulnerable as “monumental.”
Akume also observed that Nigeria is at a defining moment, with citizens yearning for peace, justice, economic stability, and accountable leadership.
He underscored that the church’s advocacy for good governance, national unity, human dignity, and the sanctity of life continues to serve as a moral compass for the nation.
“Pastoral letters and communiqués issued by the bishops have often reflected the conscience of the nation, challenging public office holders to uphold transparency, accountability, and servant leadership,” he said, stressing that such interventions are rooted in Gospel values rather than political opposition.
A Knight of St. John International, Akume said faith and governance must be bridged to ensure public policies are guided by moral integrity as well as administrative efficiency.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s readiness for constructive engagement, the SGF stated that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to promoting peace, interreligious harmony, youth empowerment, and inclusive development.
He commended the church’s role in dialogue, reconciliation, and interfaith collaboration amid insecurity and social fragmentation, urging that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.
“Let me assure you that the government remains committed to policies aimed at economic reform, institutional strengthening, and social protection for the most vulnerable.
“We acknowledge that transformation requires patience, sacrifice, and collective effort. In this journey, the prayers and moral support of the church are invaluable.” Akume added.
He concluded by commending the bishops for their leadership and resilience, praying that the plenary discussions would yield resolutions that strengthen evangelisation, deepen pastoral care, and contribute to national stability and sustainable development.
