CATHOLIC BISHOPS OF NIGERIA ISSUE CALL TO ACTION: A PATH TO A JUST NATION THROUGH FAITH AND REFORM

 -By Ruben Mario Brodrick

 Preamble: and the Power of Christian Hope

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) concluded its Second Plenary Meeting for 2025 in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, with a powerful message of Christian hope. The bishops emphasized that this hope isn't naive optimism but a confident expectation based on God's promises. They called on Nigerians to persevere in this hope and work for justice, despite the current struggles.

 *Family and Societal Issues* 

The communiqué highlights the family as the bedrock of society and expresses concern over the erosion of family values. The bishops condemn prostitution and urge parents to take their roles as the first educators in faith and morals seriously.

They also addressed the increasing use of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), reaffirming the Church's teaching that it's gravely immoral as it separates the unitive and procreative aspects of marriage.

 Instead, they encourage adoption and the use of natural family planning. 

The bishops also cautioned against the resurgence of idolatry, occult practices, and superstitions among young people, urging parents and catechists to provide sound spiritual formation.

 They also spoke on the dangers of the digital age, warning against the misuse of technology that leads to cybercrime, pornography, and addiction.

 *Church Matters and Internal Reforms:* 

The bishops expressed deep concern over deviations from established liturgical norms, such as multiple collections and fundraising during Mass. They reiterated their stance against these actions, which they see as a "scandal."

 They also condemned the practice of allowing politicians to use the sanctuary for self-serving purposes, reminding the faithful that the Church is a sacred space.

The communiqué also took a stand against private ministries and prosperity gospel preachers who exploit religion for personal gain. The bishops called on diocesan leaders to uphold fidelity to Catholic doctrines and practices. 

They also stressed the urgency of catechesis to foster deep communion with Christ and form lifelong disciples.

 *State of the Nation:* Challenges and the Way Forward:

While acknowledging some positive changes initiated by the government, such as road rehabilitation, a new minimum wage, and tax reforms, the bishops noted that Nigeria still faces persistent and severe challenges. They pointed to unabated insecurity, extreme poverty, and high youth unemployment as major issues. 

The state of the health and education sectors also remains a significant worry, evidenced by the mass exodus of professionals and crumbling infrastructure.

 The bishops identified corruption and bad governance as the fundamental cause of these problems, noting that politicians are more concerned with retaining power than with serving the common good.

The communiqué proposes a radical change for the nation, with several key recommendations:

 *Electoral Reform:* The bishops called for a more robust and comprehensive reform to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process, including the electronic transmission of results and the appointment of non-partisan INEC officials.

 *Political Education:* They urged INEC and other agencies to intensify political education to combat voter apathy and encouraged citizens to vote according to their conscience, without being swayed by bribes or other considerations.

 *Role of the Laity:* The bishops affirmed that the lay faithful have a crucial role to play in politics. They encouraged honest and God-fearing Catholics with leadership talent to seek political office to advance the common good.

 *Environmental Concerns:* The bishops drew attention to the environmental degradation in the Niger Delta due to oil spillage and gas flaring, calling for urgent cleanup and rehabilitation efforts. They also called for the effective operation of seaports in the region to create jobs and curb criminal activities.

 *Education and Agriculture:* The communiqué supported the new "National Policy on Non-State Schools" and called for government support for Catholic schools, which are committed to excellence and moral formation. They also urged the government to create an enabling environment for agriculture to boost food production and employment.

 *Recent Church Events:* 

The communiqué also acknowledged significant recent events in the Catholic Church, including the death of Pope Francis and the election of his successor, Pope Leo XIV. They noted the national celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope taking place in Elele, Rivers State, and offered condolences on the passing of Bishop Francis Ogbonna Okobo.

 *Conclusion: A Renewed Hope for Nigeria* 

In their concluding remarks, the bishops reiterated that "hope does not deceive; hope saves." They called for a national transformation that touches every sector of society. The communiqué ends with a prayer for the nation, entrusting Nigeria to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.