The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called on the Federal Government to urgently address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and ensure credible elections in 2027, warning that continued bloodshed and declining voter participation pose serious threats to the country’s democracy.
The charge was delivered by the CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, at the opening of the Conference’s 2026 First Plenary Meeting in Abuja.
“Nigeria Continues to Bleed”
Ugorji described the nation’s security situation as deeply troubling, citing repeated kidnappings and mass killings across several states, including reported attacks in Woro and Nuku communities of Kwara State.
“Our country has continued to experience rising security challenges… Nigeria continues to bleed endlessly,” he said, lamenting what he termed the bold and unchecked operations of gunmen exploiting weaknesses in the security architecture.
While acknowledging efforts by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, including the declaration of a national security emergency, the bishops maintained that the response remains largely reactive.
They urged the government to invest in modern surveillance technology and ensure timely prosecution of arrested suspects, warning that delays or reintegration of repentant insurgents without transparency could erode public trust.
Alarm Over 2027 Elections
The bishops also expressed concern over declining voter turnout, describing it as a troubling sign of waning public confidence in the electoral process.
“This decline says a lot about citizens’ trust in the electoral process and calls into question the legitimacy of elected officials,” Ugorji stated.
The Conference called on the National Assembly to review the amended Electoral Act and make real-time electronic transmission of results mandatory ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tax Reform and Rising Hardship
On Nigeria’s 2025 Tax Act, which took effect on January 1, 2026, the bishops acknowledged potential long-term benefits but warned that the reforms could exacerbate hardship.
They expressed fears that higher living costs could push more unemployed youths toward criminal activities if mitigating measures are not put in place.
Illegal Mining Fuels Violence
The CBCN further identified illegal mining as a major driver of insecurity and revenue loss, alleging that criminal groups use proceeds from minerals such as gold and lithium to fund weapons procurement and terrorist activities.
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The bishops called for stricter enforcement, including the deployment of drone technology and artificial intelligence to monitor remote mining sites.
Call for Purpose-Driven Leadership
In a keynote address, Dr. Mike Omeri stressed the need for leadership anchored on service and the common good.
“Leadership of purpose is courageous and does not seek power. Rather, it seeks to serve,” he said, urging leaders to prioritise justice, equity and compassion.
Delivering the homily at the opening Mass, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama warned political and religious leaders against the misuse of authority and expressed hope that the 2027 elections would reflect the genuine will of Nigerians.
Transition and Jubilee Announcement
Ugorji also announced a Special Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV, describing it as a call to spiritual renewal and peace. He disclosed that he would step down as CBCN president at the end of the plenary session, thanking members for their support during his tenure.
The bishops’ message comes amid growing national debate over insecurity, electoral credibility and economic reform, placing renewed moral pressure on the government ahead of the 2027 polls.