The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system while unveiling plans to strengthen engagement with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and other key stakeholders. The move comes amid public discussions surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s recent meeting with Catholic bishops and is aimed at reinforcing dialogue on national security, governance, economic reforms and social development.
Akume Outlines Government’s Engagement Strategy
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration will expand consultations with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), faith-based organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s pressing national challenges.
Akume made the disclosure in a personally signed statement following reactions generated by President Tinubu’s recent meeting with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops.
According to the SGF, the administration believes sustained dialogue with strategic institutions remains essential to promoting national unity, strengthening governance and addressing issues affecting the country.
Government Dismisses One-Party State Allegations
Responding to speculation that the Tinubu administration is pursuing a one-party political system, Akume rejected the allegation, insisting that the Federal Government remains fully committed to democratic principles.
He stressed that the administration neither seeks nor supports the establishment of a one-party state and reaffirmed its respect for Nigeria’s constitutional democratic order.
Akume further stated that the government remains committed to credible elections and respects the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a critical institution in Nigeria’s democracy.
“The Federal Government neither seeks nor supports a one-party state,” Akume stated.
Dialogue Remains Central To Government’s Approach
The SGF said his office will continue engaging with the Catholic Bishops, other religious organisations and relevant national stakeholders to build consensus on matters affecting the country.
He explained that complex national challenges cannot be addressed by government alone, noting that collaboration with religious institutions, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens is necessary for sustainable progress.
According to Akume, constructive engagement between these groups and government is essential for promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and advancing national development.
Catholic Church Recognised For National Contributions
Akume described the Catholic Church as one of Nigeria’s major development partners, highlighting its longstanding contributions beyond religious activities.
He noted that the Church continues to make significant contributions in education, healthcare, humanitarian intervention, peacebuilding and moral leadership, making it an important stakeholder in national development.
The SGF added that President Tinubu’s engagement with the Catholic Bishops reflected the administration’s commitment to maintaining open communication with institutions that play vital roles in society.
Discussions Covered Security, Economy And Democratic Governance
According to Akume, the meeting between President Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops addressed several issues affecting the nation.
Among the subjects discussed were:
- National insecurity.
- Economic hardship.
- Education.
- Public service delivery.
- Electoral credibility.
- Political pluralism.
- Religious freedom.
He described the meeting as frank, constructive and focused on identifying practical solutions to the country’s challenges.
Government Highlights Progress Amid Ongoing Reforms
While acknowledging the economic difficulties experienced by many Nigerians, the SGF maintained that the current challenges represent a temporary phase arising from reforms designed to address long-standing structural weaknesses.
He said the administration’s economic policies are intended to restore macroeconomic stability, attract investment, rebuild investor confidence and place Nigeria on a sustainable path for long-term growth.
Akume added that despite the immediate challenges associated with the reforms, the government believes they are necessary to secure future economic stability.
Administration Points To Key Development Initiatives
As part of its assessment of progress, the Federal Government highlighted several programmes and projects it says are supporting national development.
These include:
- The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
- Security operations that led to the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.
- The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
- The Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway.
- Nationwide road rehabilitation projects.
- Agricultural support initiatives.
- Electricity sector reforms.
- Expanded social intervention programmes.
According to Akume, these initiatives are intended to improve infrastructure, expand economic opportunities and enhance the quality of life for Nigerians.
Political Significance
The statement represents the Federal Government’s effort to clarify its democratic position while reinforcing its governance strategy of sustained engagement with religious institutions and other national stakeholders.
It also signals the administration’s intention to continue defending its reform agenda through dialogue, institutional cooperation and public communication as political discussions surrounding governance and democracy continue.
Looking Ahead
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation says consultations with the Catholic Bishops, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders will continue as part of broader efforts to build national consensus on governance, security and economic reforms.
The administration is expected to maintain these engagements while advancing its ongoing reform programmes and responding to issues raised by key national institutions.
© 2025 Gossip News Now, a division of CHIEJOS HARBIAN DIGITAL MEDIA LTD.
Contact us via admin@gossipnewsnow.online.
