By Ade Iyamoye
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has urged political leaders and authorities at all levels to place the protection of human life at the centre of governance as Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity, economic hardship and social tension.
In his 2025 Christmas Message, Kaigama lamented that the dignity of human life is under severe strain due to widespread killings, kidnappings, terrorism, banditry and violent crime across the country.
He said the true meaning of Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, underscores the sacred and priceless value of every human life.
The Archbishop cautioned against narratives that deepen religious or ethnic divisions in addressing the security crisis, stressing that the urgent priority must be to stop the killings and violent abductions wherever they occur.
He called for a sincere, united and depoliticised national response to insecurity.
Kaigama also expressed concern over the worsening economic situation, noting that inflation, unemployment, hunger and poverty are pushing many Nigerians into despair.
He urged government to ensure that economic and tax policies are guided by compassion, justice and sensitivity to the plight of the poor and vulnerable.
On governance, the cleric decried corruption, exclusion and weak accountability, warning that leadership detached from the suffering of the people reduces human life to mere statistics.
He called on leaders to rise above partisan interests and focus on restoring security, peace and public confidence.
He, however, acknowledged recent efforts by authorities that led to the safe release of abducted schoolchildren in Niger State, describing it as evidence that effective collaboration can yield positive results.
Kaigama urged both leaders and citizens to embrace the Christmas message of peace, justice and reconciliation, expressing hope that Nigeria can still rebuild trust and protect the sanctity of every human life.
