The Nigerian Presidency has countered recent concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), emphasizing that the country is making significant progress under President Bola Tinubu. In a statement released by the Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government highlighted improvements in security, the economy, youth employment, and internally generated revenue.
This response comes after the Catholic Bishops painted a bleak picture of Nigeria’s current state at their plenary meeting in Abuja, citing issues such as youth unemployment, insecurity, poverty, corruption, and electoral fraud. While the Bishops called for urgent action, the Presidency insists that reforms under Tinubu’s administration are already yielding positive results.
Security: A Safer Nigeria?
One of the major concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops was insecurity, which has plagued Nigeria for years. However, the Presidency argues that the situation has improved significantly under Tinubu’s leadership. According to official data, over 8,000 criminals—including bandits, Boko Haram insurgents, and kidnappers—have been neutralized in the past two years, while more than 10,000 kidnapped individuals, mostly women and children, have been rescued.
These security improvements have reportedly allowed farmers in the North-West and North-East to return to their lands, leading to increased food production and lower food prices. While challenges remain, the government maintains that its proactive approach is restoring safety across the country.
Economic Reforms and Stabilization
Addressing economic concerns, the government highlighted several key achievements. The statement emphasized that Tinubu’s administration inherited a struggling economy but has since implemented policies that have stabilized the financial landscape. Key indicators of progress include:
- Improved balance of trade
- Stronger foreign reserves
- A more stable currency
- Increased local refining capacity due to investments in refineries, including the Dangote Refinery and NNPCL facilities in Port Harcourt and Warri
The government also pointed to international recognition of its economic management, noting that Chatham House, a respected UK-based policy think tank, recently praised Nigeria’s economic competitiveness under Tinubu’s leadership.
Youth Employment and Social Programs
Unemployment remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, but the government claims that several new initiatives are addressing the issue. Tinubu’s administration has introduced multiple youth-focused programs aimed at job creation and skills development, including:
- 3MTT (Three Million Technical Talent Program)
- NATEP (National Talent Export Program)
- LEEP (Lifelong Education and Employment Program)
- IDiCE (Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises Program)
- NiYA (Nigerian Youth Investment Fund)
According to government projections, these programs are expected to generate over 10 million new jobs for young Nigerians. The administration believes that by harnessing youth creativity and technical skills, the country will drive long-term economic growth.
Increased Revenue and Infrastructure Investments
The Presidency also highlighted its efforts to boost government revenue and reinvest it in critical infrastructure. The 2025 budget, valued at a record-breaking N54.9 trillion, prioritizes economic and social development. Key areas of focus include:
- Roads and transportation
- Electricity and power generation
- Healthcare and education
- National security enhancements
The administration argues that these investments will lay the foundation for sustainable economic expansion and improve the standard of living for Nigerians.
A Divided Perspective: Progress vs. Challenges
While the Presidency remains optimistic about the country’s trajectory, many Nigerians still face economic hardships, high inflation, and security concerns. The Catholic Bishops’ concerns reflect the realities experienced by ordinary citizens, particularly those struggling with poverty and joblessness.
However, the government insists that its policies are designed to create long-term prosperity and that recent reforms are already delivering results. The debate over Nigeria’s progress under Tinubu is likely to continue, with some citizens hopeful for a better future and others demanding immediate action to address pressing challenges.
What you should Know
The exchange between the Catholic Bishops and the Nigerian government highlights the contrasting perspectives on the nation’s current state. While religious leaders call for urgent intervention, the Presidency asserts that Nigeria is on the right path, citing improvements in security, economic stability, youth employment, and infrastructure development.
Will Tinubu’s vision for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria materialize? Only time will tell.
