By Ade Iyamoye
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), has called for an end to superficial displays of religiosity and the unhealthy rivalry between religious groups in the country, urging Nigerians to embrace faith through genuine service to humanity.
Speaking at the opening Mass of the CBCN First 2025 Plenary Assembly in Abuja, Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, warned against reducing religion to mere symbols, extravagant places of worship, and a competition for supremacy.
“Enough of external religiosity, empty religious symbols, and the erection of monumental places of worship.
“We must stop doing everything to outdo one another by parading religion instead of living out our religious values,” Kaigama declared.
Addressing the theme of the plenary, “Jubilee of Hope: A Light for a New Nigeria,” the Archbishop challenged both Christians and Muslims to use their faith as a tool for national transformation by rejecting corruption, embracing justice, and extending compassion to the needy.
“As we Christians journey towards Easter and our Muslim brothers observe Ramadan, let us fast not just from food, but from corruption, hatred, and injustice. The Church in Nigeria must recommit to being the light that dispels darkness,” he said.
He decried the tragic Christmas stampede at Holy Trinity, Maitama, Abuja, where people lost their lives in a desperate bid for food, calling it a disgrace in a nation abundantly blessed with resources.
He urged Nigerian leaders—political, military, religious, and traditional—to take responsibility by rejecting ill-gotten wealth and prioritizing the welfare of the people.
“If we pray and fast but continue to hurt the vulnerable, our fasting and prayers are meaningless,” Kaigama warned.
Reaffirming that a new Nigeria is possible, he called on citizens to reject bribery, uphold integrity, mentor the younger generation, and foster communities built on kindness and unity.
“The real measure of faith is not in the size of our churches or mosques but in our ability to live with honesty, love, and justice,” he concluded.
