Nigerian Catholic Bishops Reject Foreign Aid Bill, Demand Action On Insecurity, Poverty
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called for urgent action to address insecurity, poverty, poor infrastructure and threats to human dignity, while urging the National Assembly to halt the proposed Foreign Aids (Regulation, Transparency and Disclosure) Bill 2026.
The bishops made the demands in a communiqué issued after their Second Plenary Meeting held from 10 to 18 September 2026 at Our Lady and St Kizito Pastoral Centre, Ede, Osun State.
The CBCN said the Foreign Aids Bill could adversely affect churches, mosques, schools and humanitarian organisations providing assistance to vulnerable and conflict-affected communities.
The communiqué signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso of Kaduna, and the Secretary, Bishop Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo of Abeokuta, argued that the proposed law could give government officials excessive discretionary powers and restrict civic space.
On security, the bishops welcomed moves to decentralise the police system but cautioned that such reforms must serve the common good rather than personal, ethnic, political or religious interests.
They also demanded stronger intelligence, accountability and concerted action against kidnapping, banditry, illegal mining and the occupation of land by criminal groups.
The Conference further called for intensified efforts to enable displaced Nigerians return to their ancestral communities.
On the economy, the bishops said hardship and lack of basic necessities were leaving families struggling despite Nigeria’s abundant resources.
They urged governments to create jobs, support local businesses and implement policies capable of reducing poverty.
The bishops also called for greater investment in roads, electricity, water and railway infrastructure, while urging Nigerians to protect public property and report corruption.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the CBCN called for free, fair and credible elections and urged citizens to participate in civic education and voter mobilisation.
It announced 8 December 2026 as a special national day of prayer and fasting for the success of the elections.
The Conference also urged politicians and other stakeholders to deploy technology and artificial intelligence responsibly, particularly as the country approaches the elections.
The communiqué was signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso of Kaduna, and the Secretary, Bishop Peter Olukayode Odetoyinbo of Abeokuta.
Join Our WhatsApp Community
