The Presidency has dismissed concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), asserting that Nigeria is making significant progress under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly in security, economic stability, and youth employment.
At its first plenary meeting of 2025 in Abuja, the CBCN painted a bleak picture of the nation’s state, highlighting challenges such as unemployment, insecurity, poverty, corruption, and electoral irregularities. The conference’s president, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru, urged swift intervention to prevent further deterioration.
However, in a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency countered this outlook, emphasizing the positive strides made in multiple sectors since Tinubu assumed office nearly two years ago.
Government Response to Bishops’ Concerns
The statement acknowledged the Bishops’ patriotic concerns but insisted that Nigeria has seen “tremendous progress” across key areas.
On Security: The government highlighted improved security conditions, citing the elimination of over 8,000 criminals, including terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers, along with the rescue of more than 10,000 abducted individuals, mainly women and children. It noted that better security in the North-West and North-East has enabled farmers to return to their fields, leading to increased food production and lower prices of essential goods.
On the Economy: The Presidency credited Tinubu’s policies for stabilizing the economy, improving the balance of trade, strengthening foreign reserves, and curbing inflation. It also pointed to increased local refining capacity, supported by the operationalization of the Dangote Refinery and upgrades to the NNPCL refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri.
On Youth Employment: The government highlighted initiatives such as 3MTT, NATEP, LEEP, IDiCE, NiYA, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, which aim to create 10 million jobs for young Nigerians.
Additionally, the statement noted that revenue collection has risen significantly, allowing for increased investments in critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security. The N54.9 trillion 2025 budget, according to the Presidency, is designed to drive economic growth and national development.
International organizations, including Chatham House, have reportedly commended Tinubu’s economic policies. A recent article by the UK-based think tank described Nigeria’s economy as the most competitive it has been in 25 years due to ongoing reforms.
Optimism for the Future
While acknowledging the continued struggles of many Nigerians, the Presidency maintained that the government’s decisions are paving the way for a more prosperous future. It assured citizens that the administration remains committed to delivering on its promises and steering Nigeria toward lasting growth and stability.
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