The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised alarm over the worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and youth unemployment in the country, stating that despite recent government reforms, the situation has become unbearable for millions of Nigerians.
The bishops made their concerns known during the 2025 First Plenary Meeting of the CBCN at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) in Abuja on Sunday. The event brought together top religious leaders, including Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and CBCN President; Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); and Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, Catholic Archbishop of Abuja.
The bishops lamented the rising cost of living, with food inflation hitting 39.84% and 129 million Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty. Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged some government reforms, such as road rehabilitation, the student loan scheme, and debt servicing reduction, but stressed that they have not translated into tangible relief for Nigerians.
“While we recognize the government’s efforts in implementing certain reforms, the reality remains that most Nigerians are struggling more than ever before,” Ugorji said.
“Food inflation has hit 39.84%, making it nearly impossible for families to afford three meals a day. The statistics are alarming—129 million Nigerians are now living in multidimensional poverty.
“Palliatives and temporary relief programs are not enough. We need sustainable solutions that address the root causes of economic hardship.”
The bishops also condemned the escalating violence by Boko Haram, bandits, and unknown gunmen, which has led to an increase in kidnappings, including the recent abduction of Fr. Philip Ekweli and a major seminarian, as well as the brutal murder of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu.
“Our nation is under siege. We hear daily reports of innocent Nigerians being abducted, tortured, or killed by criminals who operate with seeming impunity.
“Even men of God are not spared. How much longer will we continue to live in fear?
“We call on the government to step up its security efforts, invest in intelligence gathering, and provide the necessary tools for our security forces to protect lives and property,” Ugorji said.
With 53% of Nigeria’s young population unemployed, the bishops warned that widespread joblessness is pushing many into crime, including internet fraud, armed robbery, and ritual killings. They urged the government to invest in vocational training and job creation initiatives to prevent further social unrest.
“It is heartbreaking to see our young people lose hope in their country.
“Many have turned to crime out of desperation, while others risk their lives on dangerous migration routes in search of a better future.
“This is unacceptable. The government must prioritize job creation and vocational training programs to engage our youths positively and prevent them from falling into the hands of criminal elements,” the bishops stated.
The bishops also highlighted the deplorable state of Nigeria’s correctional facilities, where 60-90% of inmates are awaiting trial. They called for judicial reforms to ensure timely trials and an expansion of rehabilitation programs to help inmates reintegrate into society.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, echoed these concerns, calling for urgent national healing and renewal.
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“Our people are suffering like never before.
“Every day, families are forced to make heartbreaking choices—whether to eat or pay school fees, whether to buy medicine or pay rent.
“The gap between the rich and the poor has never been wider, and if we do not take urgent action, we risk plunging into deeper chaos.
“This is a time for national reflection and genuine efforts toward economic and social transformation,” Okoh warned.
Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama condemned corruption and materialism, warning that Nigeria’s leadership must embrace integrity for the country to progress.
“We cannot continue on this path of greed and self-interest.
“Corruption is eating away at the very fabric of our society. Leaders must lead with integrity, and citizens must hold them accountable.
“If we truly desire a better Nigeria, then we must all commit to a culture of fairness, justice, and shared responsibility,” Kaigama said.
The bishops concluded by urging for national transformation through good governance, social justice, and active citizen participation, stressing that a new Nigeria is possible only if leaders show accountability and citizens demand change.