The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria to advance national development, peace and social cohesion.
Akume made the pledge in a goodwill message delivered at the CBCN First Plenary Meeting of 2026 held in Abuja on Sunday.
Addressing Catholic bishops and clergy at the gathering, the SGF described the plenary as a significant moment of reflection and pastoral direction for both the Church and the nation. He expressed appreciation to the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria for the invitation to what he termed an important assembly of “shepherds of the Church in our dear nation.”
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Akume said that beyond its administrative importance, the meeting offered an opportunity for discernment on the spiritual and socio-economic realities confronting Nigerians.
He acknowledged the Catholic Church’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s moral, social and developmental landscape, commending its vast network of schools, hospitals and humanitarian institutions across the country. The SGF described the Church’s contributions to education and healthcare as monumental, particularly in serving the poor and vulnerable.
Akume emphasised that the Federal Government recognises the critical role faith-based organisations play in nation-building and remains open to constructive engagement with the Church to promote unity, justice and inclusive growth.
He noted that sustained dialogue and cooperation between government and religious institutions are essential in addressing challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship and social fragmentation.
The SGF assured the bishops that the government would continue to pursue policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens while fostering an environment where religious bodies can contribute meaningfully to national progress.
