Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The delegates of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) recently paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu in Aso Rock on 14^th March 2025 immediately they concluded their first plenary of 2025 in Abuja, where they discussed various pressing issues affecting the nation. The Bishops’ Conference expressed their optimism about the current state of the nation under President Tinubu’s leadership. Amidst so many discussions concerning security, pilgrimage board and citizen empowerment, education was paramount in the discussion where the Bishops demanded for the return of mission schools nationwide. In his response, the President; Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu appreciates the Bishops for their support of him and their efforts in educating the citizens. He said his doors are open and the Bishops can always bring their suggestions.

Regarding the return of mission schools, the President mentioned that state schools are matters for the sub nationals but has agreed with the CBCN to set up a committee to facilitate the process. However, further details about this committee, including its composition and terms of reference, are yet to be disclosed. Though the President urged them to suggest possible names to constitute the committee, he said “we will set up the committee as you suggested”

It’s worth noting that the return of mission schools has been a longstanding issue in Nigeria, with many stakeholders advocating for the reversal of the government’s takeover of these schools in the 1970s.

The President thanked the Catholic Church for the degree of investment she puts in education. He also promised to help the medical school of Veritas University, Abuja.

The meeting could be described as highly successful as the Bishops took a group picture with the President.