The Catholic Bishops’ Conference convened its inaugural plenary meeting of 2025 in Abuja over the weekend, presenting a concerning assessment of the nation’s economic and political landscape that resembled excerpts from a bygone era.
In his introductory remarks, CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru identified youth unemployment, insecurity, poverty, corruption, and electoral malpractice as significant challenges afflicting the nation. He urged national leaders to take immediate action to prevent further deterioration.
President Bola Tinubu expresses profound gratitude for the ongoing contributions of the Catholic Bishops regarding governance issues in the country. The Conference's dedication to national unity, peace, and stability is both commendable and highly regarded by the government.
While the governance issues highlighted by the Bishops persist, it is essential to assert that the nation has made significant strides in various sectors since President Tinubu took office approximately 22 months ago.
Regarding security, Nigeria is currently safer than it was in 2023, a development attributed to the efforts of our military and security agencies, alongside the decisive leadership of President Tinubu as Commander-in-Chief.
In the past two years, more than 8,000 criminals—including bandits, armed robbers, Boko Haram militants, and kidnappers—have been neutralized, and over 10,000 Nigerians, predominantly women and children, have been rescued from captivity. The enhanced security in our communities, particularly in the North-West and North-East regions, has enabled farmers to return to their fields, resulting in increased food production and a subsequent reduction in the prices of essential goods. Farmers in Kaduna, Kebbi, and Jigawa serve as compelling examples of the improved security situation. Likewise, those cultivating cash crops across various regions are experiencing a resurgence of prosperity.
The Tinubu administration has successfully stabilized the economy, which was in a vulnerable state upon taking office. The balance of trade has shown improvement, foreign reserves are now more robust, inflation rates have decreased, and the national currency is strengthening against major currencies. Additionally, local refining capacity has significantly expanded, largely due to the operations of Dangote Refinery and NNPCL Refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri.
Recognizing the critical role of youth in fostering national development and economic advancement, President Tinubu’s administration has initiated programs aimed at promoting youth employment, enhancing their skills, and leveraging their creativity and talents for increased productivity.
These initiatives, which include 3MTT, NATEP, LEEP, IDiCE, NiYA, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, are projected to generate over 10 million new job opportunities for young individuals.
The country has also seen a remarkable increase in revenue collection, with a focus on mobilizing local resources to support essential development initiatives.
Under President Tinubu's leadership, Nigeria is allocating more funds towards economic and social infrastructure, encompassing areas such as transportation, energy, healthcare, education, and security. The ambitious N54.9 trillion budget for 2025 aims to rejuvenate the economy and establish a new path for growth.
Both local and international organizations have commended the Tinubu administration for its effective implementation of vital reforms.
Recently, Chatham House, a prominent UK-based international affairs think tank, lauded President Tinubu’s economic management team. In a published article, Chatham House noted that Nigeria's economy has become the most competitive it has been in 25 years, attributing this success to the reforms enacted under President Tinubu.
Although we acknowledge that numerous Nigerians continue to encounter challenges, we firmly believe that the government is pursuing the appropriate course of action that will ultimately result in a more prosperous and improved nation. President Tinubu and his administration are dedicated to diligently serving our fellow citizens to fulfill the vision of a more robust and thriving Nigeria. The Tinubu administration remains hopeful about the future and the positive transformations currently underway.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
March 10, 2023
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