The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Catholic Church in advancing national development, peace, and social cohesion.
Akume made the pledge in a goodwill message delivered to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at its first 2026 Plenary Meeting.
Addressing the gathering of Catholic Bishops and clergy in Abuja on Sunday, the SGF described the meeting 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 participate in what he termed an important assembly of “shepherds of the Church in our dear nation.”
Senator Akume noted that beyond its administrative importance, the plenary offered an opportunity for discernment on the spiritual and socio-economic realities facing Nigerians.
The SGF acknowledged the Catholic Church’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s moral, social, and developmental landscape. He commended the Church’s vast network of schools, hospitals, and humanitarian institutions, describing its contributions to education and healthcare as monumental, particularly in serving the poor and vulnerable.
Highlighting Nigeria’s current socio-economic and security challenges, Akume said the nation stands at a defining moment in its history, with citizens yearning for peace, justice, economic stability, and accountable leadership.
He emphasized that the Church’s advocacy for good governance, human dignity, national unity, and the sanctity of life continues to serve as a moral compass for the country.
According to him, pastoral letters and communiqués issued by the Bishops have often reflected the conscience of the nation, challenging public office holders to uphold transparency, accountability, and servant leadership.
He described such interventions as patriotic expressions rooted in Gospel values rather than acts of opposition.
Akume, a member of Knights of St. John International, said the call to be faithful in service to God and country resonates deeply with the responsibilities of public office holders.
He stressed the need to bridge faith and governance by ensuring that public policies are guided not only by administrative efficiency but also by moral integrity.
Reaffirming federal government’s readiness for constructive engagement, the SGF said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to advancing peace, interreligious harmony, youth empowerment, and inclusive development.
He noted that justice, security of lives and property, and human dignity transcend political and denominational boundaries.
He also commended the Church’s efforts to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and interfaith collaboration amid insecurity and social fragmentation, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.
“Let me assure you that the Government remains committed to policies aimed at economic reform, institutional strengthening, and social protection for the most vulnerable.
“We acknowledge that transformation requires patience, sacrifice, and collective effort. In this journey, the prayers and moral support of the Church are invaluable”.
As the bishops deliberate during the plenary, Akume prayed that their discussions would yield resolutions that strengthen evangelisation, deepen pastoral care, and contribute to national stability and sustainable development.
He assured the gathering that the government remains focused on economic reform, institutional strengthening, and social protection for the most vulnerable.
