NEWS
CBCN COMMUNIQUE: FIRST 2024 PLENARY
JOURNEYING TOGETHER FOR THE COMMON GOOD IN THE CHURCH AND OUR NATION
A Communiqué issued at the end of the First Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja, 16 to 22 February, 2024
PREAMBLE
We, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, held our First Plenary Meeting for the year at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja, from 16 to 22 February, 2024.
Having prayerfully reflected on the theme: Synod on Synodality: Areas of Concern for the Church in Nigeria as well as on the situation of our country, we issue this Communiqué:THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY: OUR JOURNEY SO FAR
The Church is no stranger to synods, which have their roots in the early Christian Community.
The word Synod from which synodality is derived conveys the idea of a journey undertaken together, listening to the Holy Spirit and to the voices of all segments of the faithful, where decisions are made collectively, dialogue promoted, and active participation encouraged. The first part of the Synod on Synodality for the Universal Church, was held at the Vatican from 4 to 29 October 2023. It was an enriching and engaging experience within the Church. The second part will be held in October 2024.Synodality is an expression of the nature of the Church as communion. It obliges us as Church to walk together within the Apostolic Tradition which without ignoring the signs of the times takes cognizance of what has been held as the Deposit of Faith, always, everywhere and by all.
There is no doubt that the way the Church is run in most parishes and dioceses in Nigeria bear laudable marks of Synodality such as Parish Pastoral Councils, Presbyteral Councils, and College of Consultors. Also there is the active participation of the different sodalities and other lay organizations in the life of the Church. Nevertheless, there is the need to strengthen these Institutions by promoting the principles of listening and dialogue. In fidelity to the Deposit of Faith, we renew our call on Priests to cultivate greater respect for the liturgical norms and avoid abuses, in celebrating the Eucharist and other sacraments. A Synodal Church, no doubt, generates healthy citizens who, in turn, work for the promotion of the dignity of the human person and the development of the country.
FIDUCIA SUPPLICANS: SOME CLARIFICATIONS
The Declaration by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Fiducia Supplicans (on the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings) has generated a lot of controversies. Many Episcopal Conferences have taken their position on this document. We re-affirm the age long teaching of the Church on the Sacrament of Marriage as a union between one man and one-woman Code of Canon Law, Canon 1055); Catechism of the Catholic Church, N. 2335). We reject the reading of the Declaration that suggests that Priests could bless same-sex couples or other couples in irregular situations such as those of polygamists, and the divorce and remarried, in a way that legitimizes such unions.
We, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria affirm our loyalty to the teaching of Christ and the Holy Father the Pope. As we have already stated as Conference and as part of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), we reiterate that Priests are not to bless same-sex couples in Nigeria. Homosexual acts are acts of grave depravity which are intrinsically disordered and, above all, contrary to natural law (Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:31; Matthew 19:5-6); CCC. N. 2357)
SITUATION OF THE NATION
We express strong solidarity with our people who are suffering in the seriously deteriorating situation of the nation, especially in the areas of security and economy.
Insecurity has attained yet a higher scale than we had ever seen before in the land. Insurgents, armed herdsmen, bandits, and the so-called unknown gunmen have continued to unleash terror in different parts of the country. Kidnapping for ransom has reached homes and areas where in the pass it was thought impossible. The result is that many have fled their homes, abandoned their farms, shops, businesses and other sources of livelihood. The number of internally-displaced persons in our country is ever growing. We are making yet another passionate appeal to Government to act immediately to stem the tide. The legitimacy of government depends on its capacity to protect life and property.
Our worsening economy has continued to make living hard and difficult for our people who have been subjected to a life of grinding poverty, continuing hunger and untold hardship. The situation is worsened by the high unemployment rate in the country, which has further impoverished and degraded our citizens.
We note the efforts of the Federal Government in addressing some of our key economic problems. While we understand the reasons behind some of the reforms, it is our view that some of these policies seem not to have been properly thought through and as such the outcomes seem to fall short of expectations. For instance, while the fuel subsidy removal was meant to help improve government’s revenue which has been the case across the three levels of government, the impact on Nigerians has been debilitating. Similarly, we note that the decision to “float the Naira” has had unintended negative and harsh consequences. In the light of this, we urge government to urgently address the increasing disaffection and restiveness spreading across the population, in order to avoid a descent into chaos and anarchy.
Way Forward
Promoting social cohesion and good governance
In view of government’s effort to end insecurity, we recommend that the ongoing discussion about the creation of State Police be carefully studied. Furthermore, government ought to assess the impact of all other already existing security outfit in this regard.
Given the diminishing purchasing power of the Nigerian currency, and the capacity of agriculture to be the bedrock of our survival, we urge government to create the necessary and conducive environment that would enable our people to return to their farms.
We commend government’s decision to transfer some items, such as electricity and railways, from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. We urge that this be extended to such other areas of the economy like mining. These measures, along with transparency and accountability in governance, are some of the factors that promote social cohesion.
We enjoin government at all levels to establish small scale industries in the rural areas to increase productivity and reduce unemployment. It would be helpful if such industries are agro based.
The Media play a critical role in nation building. They have the capacity to inform, enlighten and guide the government and citizens on important matters of governance, citizenship and patriotism. They also act as watchdogs for good governance. Rather than seek to repress or intimidate the media, we call on government and other relevant authorities to help the media perform their role responsibly and optimally. To this end, we recommend that the fundamental rights of media workers be respected. We equally advocate for the responsible use of the mainstream and social media by all.
b) Journeying Together
We enjoin government to open up to the contribution of all segments and levels of the Nigerian community, so that together we can face the emergency situation in which we now find ourselves. It is no longer acceptable for our leaders to surround themselves only with their political supporters and cronies. The general elections and determination of petitions are now over. It is time to run government for the common good. The nation needs to leave all polarizations behind and come together in unity and cohesion. We have both the natural and human resources to get this done. But those now in political power owe the nation the duty to create the enabling environment for all capable Nigerians to participate in the task of national rebirth. Politicians who are not in power and all other Nigerians now should be ready to offer their positive contribution, beyond all political party affiliation and sensitivity.
c) Hope in God and our Need for Repentance
In spite of the challenges facing our nation, we cannot give up hope. All is not lost. We have all it takes to rescue our nation. Our confidence is based on our trust in God and in our capability as a nation, with the grace of God in whom almost all Nigerians believe. Our prayers for Nigeria are not futile and should continue. Nevertheless, our trust in God must go hand in hand with our human efforts. Religious leaders should promote sincere and genuine godliness and righteousness in their religious communities, upholding among their followership honesty and hard work and condemning corruption in all its forms, in both private and public life. We equally call on the entire Nigerian elite including professionals, business people, and financial operators, many of whom have for long benefited from the corrupt system to repent and change their attitude of greed and selfishness. Furthermore, civil servants and public office holders, who have not been running our public institutions with honesty and rectitude, need to change their ways. As the government demands additional sacrifice from the citizens, one expects to see a drastic cut in the cost of running government at all levels. We urge all to have a sincere change of heart. Nonetheless, we call on government to prosecute crime and criminality wherever they are found. We commend those who have been trying to behave well against all odds, and encourage them not to give up.
NEWS FROM THE CHURCH
We acknowledge God’s bountiful blessings on the Church in Nigeria as we thank the Holy Father, Pope Francis for the following appointments: Most Reverend Gerald Mamman Musa as the bishop of the newly created Diocese of Katsina the ceremony took place on the 12 December, 2023; Most Rev. Habila Tyiakwonaboi Daboh as the Bishop of Zaria Diocese the ceremony took place on the 14 December, 2023; Most Rev. Anselm Pendo Lawani as the Bishop of Ilorin Diocese the ceremony took place on the 2 February, 2024. We are equally grateful to the Holy Father, Pope Francis for the appointment of Most Rev. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi as Auxiliary Bishop of Ahiara Diocese. His episcopal ordination took place on the 19 December, 2023 and the recent appointment of Rt Rev. Msgr Thomas Ifeanyichukwu Obiatuegwu as Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu diocese. His Episcopal Ordination comes up on 20 March, 2024. May the Church of Christ continue to flourish in our country. We rejoice with the Dioceses of Minna, Abakaliki and Issele-Uku for the Golden Jubilee of their erection. We pray for a more fruitful pastoral life in these Dioceses, while we thank God for the achievement.
We congratulate the Pan African Episcopal Committee for Social Communication for the 50th Anniversary of its establishment which held from 18 to 21 November, 2023 at Lumen Christi Retreat and Media Centre, Lekki – Lagos. May the fruits of the celebration continue to animate our pastoral life in the Church and society. We thank the Archdiocese of Lagos for hosting the event on behalf of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria.
In Prayer, we look forward to the International Eucharistic Congress holding in Quito, Ecuador from 8-15 September, 2024.
CONCLUSION: STARTING AFRESH WITH GOD
The season of Lent affords us the opportunity to start afresh with God as individuals, as Church and as a nation. This holy season draws our attention to reparation, reconciliation and sanctification. In prayer, we deepen our relationship with the God. In fasting and abstinence, we discipline our bodies, deny ourselves of legitimate pleasure and yield our bodies to the direction of the Spirit. In almsgiving, we demonstrate our concern for the needy and the less privileged. By so doing, our synodality as a Church and as a nation becomes strengthened and impactful.
As we commit ourselves to the Lenten observances we pray: may your love be upon us O Lord as we place all our hope in you (Ps 33:22). May our Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of hope and of all consolation continue to intercede for us. Amen
- Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji
Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese
President, CBCN.
+ Donatus A. Ogun, OSA
Bishop of Uromi Diocese
Secretary, CBCN.
By David Torough, Abuja
The Federal Government has pledged its support for the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) to harness Nigeria’s Orange Economy as a driver of job creation, entrepreneurship, economic diversification and sustainable development.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the commitment on Tuesday in Abuja when the Director-General of NIPSS, Prof.
Ayo Omotayo, led a delegation from the institute on a courtesy visit.The meeting focused on the research being undertaken by participants of NIPSS Senior Executive Course 48 and plans for a National Summit and Exhibition on the Orange Economy.
Idris commended NIPSS for choosing the creative economy as the focus of its research, describing the sector as a significant opportunity to diversify Nigeria’s economy, create jobs for young people and promote sustainable prosperity.
“I want to commend NIPSS for this initiative of examining the Orange Economy and entrepreneurship for sustainable development,” the minister said.
He assured the delegation that the Ministry and its agencies would support both the research and the proposed summit. According to him, effective communication would be essential to ensuring that Nigerians and the international community understand the opportunities available in the creative economy.
“This Ministry is essentially about taking information to the public and taking it back from the public. It is a two-way thing,” Idris said.
The minister also highlighted the role of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), which has a nationwide presence, in gathering feedback on the views, needs and aspirations of Nigerians at the grassroots.
He said President Bola Tinubu’s administration remained committed to listening to citizens and adjusting policies and programmes where necessary in the national interest.
“The first question the President asks whenever I sit with him is: ‘What are Nigerians saying?’” Idris said.
To strengthen coordination, the minister said the Ministry would designate an official to work with NIPSS as preparations for the proposed summit advance.
Omotayo said NIPSS was seeking the Ministry’s partnership in its research and the planned national summit, which is expected to examine how the Orange Economy can contribute to Nigeria’s economic transformation and the administration’s ambition of building a trillion-dollar economy.
He said participants in Senior Executive Course 48 had conducted research visits across Nigeria and to several countries to examine how creative industries are being developed and leveraged for economic growth.
The proposed summit, he added, would bring together government representatives, creatives, entrepreneurs, investors and other stakeholders to explore opportunities across the sector.
“The Orange Economy is a very huge sector. We have identified about 48 subdivisions, and we believe the summit will bring out the potentials in every sector,” Omotayo said.
According to the NIPSS Director-General, Nigeria’s growing creative and digital industries have considerable potential to tackle youth unemployment while creating new avenues for entrepreneurship, investment and wealth creation.
Idris reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with NIPSS and other strategic institutions to turn research and policy ideas into practical opportunities for Nigerians, particularly young people, while strengthening the country’s position in the global creative economy.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials and representatives of NIPSS and the private sector, including Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Binyerem Ukaire; former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; and other officials.
First Bank has renewed its partnership with the Calabar Entertainment Conference and Festival (CECF) as the event’s official banking partner for the second consecutive year.
Hit FM, Cross River’s radio station and organiser of the festival, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
According to the statement, the renewal underscores First Bank’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s creative economy and platforms that promote innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth.
The CECF, now in its 10th edition, brings together stakeholders in the creative and entertainment industries, including policymakers, business leaders, investors, artists, media professionals, content creators and young entrepreneurs.
The platform is designed to explore opportunities and challenges shaping the future of Africa’s creative sector.
The statement said First Bank would participate as a Platinum Sponsor of the two-day event through “First@Arts”, its initiative supporting the arts ecosystem in Africa.
It said the initiative provides funding, visibility and capacity-building support to artists, curators, galleries, festivals and cultural institutions.
According to the statement, First@Arts also seeks to preserve African heritage, promote creative enterprise and position the arts as a driver of economic growth and cultural diplomacy.
Patrick Ugbe, Executive Producer of CECF and Chief Executive Officer of Hit FM, described First Bank’s continued partnership as a vote of confidence in the festival’s vision.
“Having First Bank return as our official banking partner for the second consecutive year is both an honour and a vote of confidence in what we are building.
“Beyond sponsorship, this partnership reflects a shared belief that the creative industry is a powerful driver of economic development, job creation, youth empowerment and national growth,” Ugbe said.
He said the organisers were pleased to continue the partnership with the bank, whose legacy spans more than 132 years.
Olayinka Ijabiyi, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, First Bank, said the renewed partnership aligned with the bank’s strategic focus on supporting the creative economy.
“At First Bank, we remain committed to enabling success and creating value for our customers and the communities we serve.
“Our continued partnership with the Calabar Entertainment Conference and Festival aligns with our strategic focus on supporting the creative economy by providing platforms that inspire innovation, encourage entrepreneurship and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth,” Ijabiyi said.
He said the bank would continue to support the creative arts ecosystem through First@Arts.
The organisers said the two-day festival would feature keynote addresses, masterclasses, panel discussions and networking sessions aimed at strengthening collaboration across the creative value chain.
They added that the event would further promote Cross River as a destination for creative exchange, cultural tourism and entertainment business in Africa. (NAN)
The Osun State Government has urged members of the Osun State University community to refrain from actions capable of creating needless tension in the institution, as the national leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities moved against the decision to extend the tenure of the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof.
Clement Adebooye.The government, in a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, obtained in Osogbo on Tuesday, faulted ASUU’s position on the two-year tenure extension recently announced for Adebooye.
ASUU had, in a communiqué issued after an emergency National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja on Saturday, September 5, declared that Adeleke’s extension of Adebooye’s tenure by two years violated the provisions of the university law.
The union subsequently mandated its UNIOSUN branch to mobilise and respond courageously to the alleged “flagrant violation of the Miscellaneous Act as amplified in the 2025 FGN-ASUU Agreement.”
The group also constituted a visitation team to the UNIOSUN branch to interact with the university administration, Governing Council and the Visitor, “in a bid to address the infraction on the two (2) years extension of the tenure of the Vice-Chancellor within two (2) weeks.”
Reacting to ASUU’s move, the government said it respected the right of every recognised staff union of the university to express its views on matters concerning the welfare and administration of the institution.
It, however, stated that the governance of Osun State University was regulated by the law and clearly defined statutory responsibilities of the Visitor, the Governing Council and other organs of the university.
It also said it was necessary to correct the impression that the decision concerning the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure was taken arbitrarily or outside the framework of due process.
“In the first place, the current tenure of the Vice-Chancellor subsists until January 2027, so the government has not taken any retroactive decision with respect to the tenure of the Vice-Chancellor. The decision by His Excellency, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke, as Visitor to Osun State University, must be understood within the context of the constitutional and statutory responsibilities of the Visitor and the subsequent legislative intervention by the Osun State House of Assembly.
“Following the Visitor’s decision, the State Legislature commenced the process of amending the Osun State University Establishment Law to provide the necessary statutory framework for the tenure extension. The amendment was subsequently considered and passed by the House of Assembly after legislative consideration of the relevant provisions.
“It is therefore inaccurate to portray the matter as though the Visitor acted in isolation or that the University’s governing framework has been disregarded. The Visitor cannot be said to have acted outside the law where the competent legislative authority has exercised its constitutional legislative function to amend the enabling law,” the statement read.
The government cautioned against attempts to create an unnecessary atmosphere of crisis, illegality or institutional instability around a matter that had been subjected to the appropriate governmental and legislative processes.
“No staff union, including ASUU, has the statutory authority to teach the Visitor or the Governing Council how to exercise powers lawfully vested in them. The University is governed by its enabling law, and not by the unilateral interpretation of any union or pressure group. It is also pertinent to state that the Governing Council remains the appropriate statutory organ for matters within its jurisdiction, just as the Visitor exercises the powers assigned to that office by the enabling framework of the University. Staff unions are important stakeholders, but they are not substitutes for these statutory organs.
“The Governor consequently urges all members of the University community to refrain from actions, statements or mobilisations capable of creating needless tension in an institution that has remained focused on its core mandates of teaching, research, innovation and community service,” the statement further read.
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