By Ade Iyamoye
The President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, has painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s socio-economic and security situation, calling for urgent reforms to prevent further hardship and unrest.
Speaking at the opening session of the CBCN’s 2025 First Plenary Meeting at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Resource Centre in Abuja, Archbishop Ugorji highlighted the nation’s economic woes, rising insecurity, youth unemployment, and the deplorable state of federal correctional centers.
While acknowledging some positive developments such as road rehabilitation, the introduction of a student loan scheme, and a reduction in revenue allocated to debt servicing, he noted that these efforts have not significantly improved the living conditions of Nigerians.
“The state of the nation remains bleak as dark clouds of uncertainty and despondency continue to gather,” he lamented.
Economic Hardship and Food Insecurity
Archbishop Ugorji decried the rising cost of living, worsened by inflation and a weak purchasing power that has plunged millions into poverty.
Citing World Bank data, he revealed that 129 million Nigerians now live below the poverty line, while the 2024 Global Food Crisis Report ranks Nigeria second globally in acute food insecurity, with 24 million people categorized as food insecure.
Escalating Insecurity and Targeting of Clergy
He expressed deep concern over the growing menace of banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings, including the abduction of priests and religious figures.
He called for a moment of silence in honor of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, who was brutally murdered, and Bishop Ayo Maria Atoyebi, who passed away recently.
“Enough of this senseless brutality, enough of this barbarism. This carnage must stop,” he declared, urging the government to deploy advanced technology to strengthen security operations.
Youth Unemployment: A Ticking Time Bomb
With over 53% of Nigerian youths unemployed, Archbishop Ugorji warned that frustration and disillusionment are pushing young people into crime, including cyber fraud, cultism, and ritual killings.
He criticized the poor alignment between education and job market demands, emphasizing the need for skill-based training.
Deplorable Correctional Centers
The Archbishop condemned the appalling state of Nigeria’s correctional facilities, describing them as overcrowded, inhumane, and breeding grounds for disease.
He urged the government to implement prison reforms, expedite justice delivery, and treat inmates with dignity.
A Call for Renewed Hope and Action
Reflecting on the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope declared by Pope Francis, Archbishop Ugorji urged Nigerians not to succumb to despair but to embrace hope as a catalyst for national transformation.
“We must play our role in creating a new Nigeria by bringing about necessary change and rekindling hope among our people,” he stated, urging church leaders to persist in advocating for good governance, justice, and transparency.
As the conference continues, Archbishop Ugorji called on all Nigerians to unite, reject corruption and division, and work toward electing competent leaders who can design policies that promote economic growth and national stability.
