President Bola Tinubu met with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, acknowledging economic difficulties and emphasizing necessary reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies. He reinforced commitments to security and religious tolerance while addressing bishops’ requests regarding mission schools and funding for pilgrimages. The bishops called for a focus on restoring public trust and enhancing national development.
President Bola Tinubu has conveyed to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria his recognition of the economic hardships facing Nigerians, underscoring the necessity of ongoing economic reforms essential for national development. During a recent meeting in Abuja, he defended the challenging decision to eliminate fuel subsidies, which he argued was crucial to prevent impending financial collapse.
In his remarks, President Tinubu emphasized, “Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country.” He went on to address the impact of poverty, stating it affects all citizens indiscriminately and requires collective action to combat.
Additionally, the President introduced tax reforms as a means to foster investment in Nigeria’s future. On the subject of security, Tinubu acknowledged progress but noted that both Christians and Muslims are affected by insecurity, reinforcing his commitment to religious tolerance.
He remarked, “This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor of Redeemed Christian Church. But we have to think of our country; this country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry.”
Regarding the bishops’ call for the restitution of mission schools, Tinubu clarified that while state governments hold jurisdiction, he previously returned schools when serving as Lagos State governor. The bishops, led by CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, acknowledged the challenges stemming from his economic policies and urged efforts to restore public trust, enhance security, and promote religious harmony.
Ugorji highlighted the encouragement from Pope Francis, who designated the current year as the “Year of Hope,” which aligns with the bishops’ theme for their conference. Furthermore, they called for an end to government funding of religious pilgrimages, insisting that religious organizations should assume full responsibility for these activities, citing issues of inefficiency and corruption in existing boards.
In conclusion, President Bola Tinubu has committed to vital economic reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s future amid current challenges. Acknowledging the pervasive impact of poverty and insecurity across religious lines, he emphasizes the need for unity and progress without religious biases. The Catholic Bishops Conference has urged the government to focus on restoring public confidence and addressing funding concerns related to religious pilgrimages. Therefore, collaborative efforts from all sectors are crucial for the country’s development.
Original Source: punchng.com
