The Partner Newspaper

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has concluded its First Plenary Meeting of 2026, issuing a powerful communiqué that addresses a nation grappling with “senseless massacre,” economic sabotage, and a growing lack of trust in democratic institutions. Meeting in Abuja from February 19 to 26, the bishops focused on the theme “Leadership for the Common Good,” defining it as the prioritization of social welfare over “selfish and sectional interests”.

State of the Nation: A Call for Urgent Action

The communiqué paints a somber picture of the current Nigerian landscape, highlighting several critical areas of concern. The bishops condemned the “gruesome” massacre of over 200 people in Kwara State and ongoing attacks in the Northern and Middle Belt regions. They urged the government to invest in drone technology and AI for surveillance and intelligence gathering. The Conference noted that trillions of Naira are lost annually to illegal mining and bunkering, with proceeds often funding terrorist activities. They called for an aggressive crackdown on these illegalities and a shift from food importation to providing subsidies and security for local farmers.

Voter Apathy and Electoral Reform: Expressing deep concern over a “steady decline” in voter turnout noting a 23% turnout in 2023 and an “abysmal 7%” in recent FCT elections the bishops demanded that the National Assembly mandate the real-time transmission of results from BVAS to the IReV portal to restore public confidence.

Leadership Transition

The plenary also marked a change in the Conference’s hierarchy. The bishops elected a new executive team to lead the CBCN:

• President: Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso (Archbishop of Kaduna)
• Vice President: Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins (Archbishop of Lagos)
• Secretary: Most Rev. Peter Odetoyinbo (Bishop of Abeokuta)
• Assistant Secretary: Most Rev. Peter Chukwu (Bishop of Abakaliki)

Spiritual Renewal: The Jubilee of St. Francis

On the ecclesiastical front, the bishops invited the faithful to participate in the Special Jubilee Year of St. Francis of Assisi, proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV. Running from January 2026 to January 2027, the Jubilee marks the 8th centenary of the saint’s death and is intended as a period of “authentic spiritual renewal” characterized by humility and peace.

“A better Nigeria is possible… This calls for a change of attitude across board and a generous and selfless disposition to serve the Common Good.”

The communiqué was signed by the outgoing President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, and Secretary, Bishop Donatus A. Ogun.

The full communique is found below.