Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has affirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening consultations with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), faith-based organizations, traditional institutions, and civil society groups. In a statement issued following public commentary surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s recent closed-door meeting with Catholic Bishops, Akume emphasized that constructive engagement is essential to overcoming Nigeria’s socio-economic and security challenges.
Commitment to Multi-Party Democracy
Akume dismissed concerns regarding potential political dominance, asserting that the administration is neither pursuing nor in support of a one-party state. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to genuine multi-party competition and stressed its deep respect for the legal autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Engagement with the Catholic Church
The SGF expressed profound respect for the Catholic Church, recognizing it as one of Nigeria’s foremost development partners in education, healthcare, peacebuilding, and humanitarian efforts. He noted that while assessments of current national realities may differ, the discussions between the President and the Bishops were candid, respectful, and focused on shared aspirations for national progress.
Economic Outlook and ReformsAddressing the current economic climate, Akume acknowledged the hardships experienced by citizens but described them as a passing phase necessary to correct long-standing structural weaknesses. He pointed to stabilizing macroeconomic indicators and highlighted targeted relief measures, including NELFUND, CreditCorp, Conditional Cash Transfers, and major infrastructure developments.
Security Enhancements
The SGF outlined ongoing adjustments to the national security architecture aimed at improving citizen safety across the country. These measures include the creation of four new Army divisions headquartered in Benue, Kwara, Taraba, and Edo states, alongside the establishment of the Office of Homeland Security. The Federal Government reiterated that it remains open to sincere advice and will continue to foster inter-faith dialogue through established platforms such as the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC).
Source: https://guardian.ng/
