Catholic Bishops decry economic hardship, knsecurity, and unemployment in Nigeria

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised concerns over the worsening economic crisis, insecurity, and high youth unemployment in the country, warning that urgent action is needed to prevent further hardship.

Speaking at the 2025 First Plenary Meeting of the CBCN, held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) in Abuja, religious leaders emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to address these pressing challenges.

Among the attendees were Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and President of CBCN; Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); and Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, Catholic Archbishop of Abuja.

Rising Economic Hardship

Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged some of the government’s economic and fiscal reforms, such as road rehabilitation, the student loan scheme, and debt servicing reduction. However, he noted that these measures have not significantly improved the lives of most Nigerians.

“Food inflation has hit 39.84 percent, making it nearly impossible for families to afford three meals a day. 129 million Nigerians are now living 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.

Worsening Insecurity

The bishops also condemned the rising cases of kidnappings, bandit attacks, and insurgency, noting that even religious leaders are now targets. Ugorji cited recent cases, including the abduction of Fr. Philip Ekweli and a major seminarian, as well as the killing of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu.

“Our nation is under siege. Innocent Nigerians are being abducted, tortured, or killed daily by criminals who operate with seeming impunity. Even men of God are not spared,” he lamented.

He called on the government to intensify security efforts, improve intelligence gathering, and provide adequate tools for security forces.

Youth Unemployment: A ‘Ticking Time Bomb’

With 53 percent of Nigeria’s youth unemployed, the bishops described the situation as a ticking time bomb that could lead to more crime, internet fraud, armed robbery, and ritual killings.

“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,” Ugorji stated.

The bishops urged the government to invest in vocational training and job creation initiatives to engage youths and prevent social unrest.

Deplorable State of Correctional Facilities

The bishops criticized the overcrowding and poor conditions in Nigerian prisons, where 60-90 percent of inmates are awaiting trial. They called for judicial reforms to ensure faster trials and improve prison infrastructure in line with global human rights standards.

Calls for Urgent National Reflection

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the CAN President, warned that Nigeria is at a breaking point, as citizens struggle to afford basic necessities.

“Every day, families must choose between food, school fees, or rent. The gap between the rich and the poor has never been wider. If we do not act now, we risk plunging into deeper chaos,” he said.

Similarly, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama urged the government to prioritize economic relief measures, warning that prolonged hardship could lead to increased social unrest. He also called for a cultural shift away from materialism and corruption, encouraging Nigerians to uphold honesty, integrity, and community support.

The CBCN urged the government to take immediate steps to stabilize the economy, improve security, and create job opportunities to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.