The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called on state governments that ordered the closure of schools due to the ongoing Ramadan fast to reconsider their decision.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its first plenary meeting for 2025, the CBCN, led by its President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru, urged the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kano states to reopen the affected schools.
The bishops emphasized that every child has a right to education and that Nigeria, as a multi-religious society, should not implement policies that restrict access to learning.
“We demand that those governments that ordered the closure of all schools in some parts of the country withdraw such an order in light of the rights of children to education and the multi-religious nature of our society,” Iwejuru stated.
The bishops reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to providing education, healthcare, and agricultural development to foster national growth.
They emphasized the need for an enabling environment to continue their contributions in these areas.
Additionally, Iwejuru called on political, religious, and traditional leaders to encourage national unity and integration, stressing the importance of instilling hope and development among Nigerians.
He also urged citizens to remain vocal about their rights and not succumb to silence in the face of socio-economic and security challenges.
“We, as a people, must refuse to be cowed into silence and helplessness. Instead, we should insist on doing the right thing and ensuring that justice prevails,” he said.
The bishops acknowledged that Nigeria is still grappling with numerous difficulties, including rising food prices, economic hardship, youth unemployment, and persistent insecurity, including kidnappings and killings.
They encouraged actions that foster national unity and social stability.
Despite these challenges, Iwejuru noted that Nigeria has seen some positive developments, including efforts to revamp the petroleum sector, improve road infrastructure, and introduce economic policies like the student loan scheme, a new minimum wage proposal, and a revised tax system.
“The reinvigoration of the petroleum industry, the rehabilitation of dilapidated roads, and the construction of new ones across the nation are commendable,” he stated.
He also praised government initiatives to boost agricultural production and commended security operatives who risk their lives to combat crime.
Furthermore, Iwejuru stressed the need to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system by ensuring transparency and accountability in institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the judiciary.
“To restore public trust in our electoral system, it is essential to strengthen our laws and ensure that state agents carry out their duties with sincerity,” he concluded.
