In a decisive move to address the escalating insecurity and economic challenges facing Nigeria, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called for the consideration and careful study of establishing State Police to combat the growing insecurity plaguing the nation.
They also urged the government to create a conducive environment for agriculture and to decentralize power in certain economic sectors to spur growth and reduce unemployment.
These recommendations were made in a communique issued on Thursday night at the conclusion of their week-long First Plenary Meeting, held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Abuja, from February 16 to 22, 2024.
The bishops, who deliberated extensively on the theme: ‘Synod on Synodality: Areas of Concern for the Church in Nigeria,’ also reflected on the dire situation of the nation.
“The legitimacy of government depends on its capacity to protect life and property,” they asserted, highlighting the urgent need for the government to act decisively against the surge in insecurity that has plagued the country.
With insurgents, armed herdsmen, bandits, and unknown gunmen causing widespread havoc, and kidnappings reaching previously safe areas, the bishops voiced their solidarity with the suffering masses.
“In view of the government’s effort to end insecurity, we recommend that the ongoing discussion about the creation of State Police be carefully studied. Furthermore, the government ought to assess the impact of all other already existing security outfits in this regard,” the communique read in part.
The Bishops lamented the growing number of internally displaced persons and the failure of the economy to support the populace, leading to increased poverty and hardship.
The bishops did not shy away from addressing the nation’s economic woes, acknowledging the government’s efforts but pointing out the shortcomings of certain policies, including fuel subsidy removal and the floating of the Naira, which have had adverse effects on the populace.
In proposing a way forward, they also called for government efforts to improve the agricultural sector and create small-scale industries in rural areas to boost productivity and reduce unemployment.
The Communique added, “Given the diminishing purchasing power of the Nigerian currency, and the capacity of agriculture to be the bedrock of our survival, we urge the government to create the necessary and conducive environment that would enable our people to return to their farms.
“We commend the government’s decision to transfer some items, such as electricity and railways, from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. We urge that this be extended to other areas of the economy like mining. These measures, along with transparency and accountability in governance, are some of the factors that promote social cohesion.
“We enjoin the government at all levels to establish small-scale industries in rural areas to increase productivity and reduce unemployment. It would be helpful if such industries are agro-based.”
In their communiqué, the bishops emphasized the critical role of the media in nation-building and called for respect for media workers’ rights and responsible use of social media.
Highlighting the theme of their deliberations, ‘Synod on Synodality: Areas of Concern for the Church in Nigeria,’ the bishops emphasized the importance of walking together and listening to each other in addressing the challenges facing the nation.
Consequently, the CBCN urged all segments of the Nigerian community to contribute positively, beyond political affiliations, to address the nation’s challenges, advocating for a united effort in national rebirth.
They said, “We enjoin the government to open up to the contribution of all segments and levels of the Nigerian community, so that together we can face the emergency situation in which we now find ourselves. It is no longer acceptable for our leaders to surround themselves only with their political supporters and cronies.
“The general elections and determination of petitions are now over. It is time to run the government for the common good. The nation needs to leave all polarizations behind and come together in unity and cohesion. We have both the natural and human resources to get this done.
“But those now in political power owe the nation the duty to create the enabling environment for all capable Nigerians to participate in the task of national rebirth.
“Politicians who are not in power and all other Nigerians should now be ready to offer their positive contribution, beyond all political party affiliation and sensitivities.”
They praised the existing structures within the Church that promote synodality but called for a strengthening of these institutions to enhance dialogue and participation.
© Vanguard.