Ease Financial Burden On Poor Nigerians, Catholic Bishops Urge Govts

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has urged governments at various levels to address insecurity, poverty, poor infrastructure, and bad governance to ease the financial burden on poor Nigerians. The call was made during the closing Mass of the 2026 2nd Plenary Meeting of the bishops held in Osogbo, Osun State. The meeting, which took place between September 10 and 18, 2026, recognized the efforts of governments and citizens in maintaining national unity despite the challenges.

Concerns were raised about the persistence of violence, kidnappings, banditry, illegal mining, and the invasion of schools and places of worship. The bishops also highlighted the negative impact of poverty on families struggling to survive despite the nation's wealth. They called for increased job opportunities, an enabling environment for businesses, and improved economic policies to alleviate the financial struggles of the poor.

Poor infrastructure, such as bad roads, unreliable power supply, and failing public utilities, were also criticized, with a demand for transparent investment in public amenities and the provision of railway transport facilities. The bishops urged citizens to protect public property and report corrupt practices related to infrastructure projects.

For the upcoming 2027 general elections, the conference called for free, fair, and credible elections, and encouraged eligible voters to participate and engage in civic education and prayer initiatives in preparation for the elections.