Faith Must Drive Nigeria’s Renewal, Says CSN Secretary General
As Nigeria steps into 2026 amid lingering economic strain and social tension, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) has urged citizens to look beyond policies and politics, insisting that true national renewal must begin with faith-shaped consciences.
In his New Year message titled “Faith at the Service of the Nation,” released on January 1, the Secretary General of the CSN, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, called on Nigerians to allow their faith influence personal conduct, civic duty and national life.
He stressed that time itself finds meaning only when lived with God at its centre.
Fr. Banjo noted that Christmas redefined humanity’s identity, moving believers “from slavery to sonship,” a reality that carries moral responsibility.
According to him, faith that does not translate into daily life remains incomplete, adding that children of God must live without fear, reject divisions and recognise one another as brothers and sisters beyond tribe, religion or status.
Turning to national issues, the cleric said loving Nigeria goes beyond criticism and requires integrity, honesty and respect for public resources. “Nations are renewed when consciences are renewed,” he said, warning that the abuse of public facilities reflects deeper moral decay.
He urged Nigerians to approach the 2027 general elections with conscience and truth, not money or ethnic sentiment, while calling on public servants, workers and traders to act with integrity. Fr. Banjo also emphasised the role of families, education and youth discipline in shaping the nation’s future.
Despite Nigeria’s challenges, he described the New Year as a sign of hope, stressing that hope must be matched with responsibility.
He expressed confidence that if Nigerians live authentically as children of God, 2026 could mark a turning point towards justice, peace and national renewal.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n
