Kwankwaso Backs Catholic Bishops, Calls for Urgent Action on Nigeria’s Hardships
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Duke Donald Iheka
Former Kano State Governor and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Presidential Candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has thrown his weight behind the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), praising the bishops for what he described as their courage and patriotism in speaking out on the country's worsening socio-economic and security challenges.
Kwankwaso said the concerns recently raised by the Catholic bishops regarding the rising cost of living, persistent insecurity, declining public confidence in government institutions, and widespread hardship accurately reflect the daily realities experienced by millions of Nigerians across the country.
According to him, the issues highlighted by the bishops should not be dismissed as mere criticism but viewed as a sincere call for responsible governance and urgent national action.
He noted that despite Nigeria's enormous human and natural resources, a significant proportion of the population continues to struggle with poverty, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, poor educational opportunities, and limited access to basic social services.
Kwankwaso stressed that these challenges have continued to erode public confidence and place enormous pressure on families and businesses, making it imperative for leaders at all levels to adopt policies that directly improve the welfare of citizens.
He maintained that Nigeria possesses the capacity to overcome its current difficulties if those entrusted with leadership demonstrate sincerity, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the needs of the people.
The former governor also called on Nigerians not to remain passive in the face of national challenges but to continue participating actively in democratic governance through peaceful engagement, constructive criticism, and advocacy for policies that promote security, economic growth, and social justice.
According to him, responsible leadership and active citizenship are indispensable ingredients for building a more peaceful, united, and prosperous nation.
Kwankwaso's remarks come amid increasing public debate over the state of the nation following observations made by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria during its recent plenary meeting.
The bishops had expressed concern over the country's economic situation, citing rising inflation, the increasing cost of food and essential commodities, insecurity in many parts of the country, unemployment, and growing hardship affecting ordinary Nigerians. They urged governments at all levels to implement policies that would ease citizens' suffering while strengthening national unity and public trust.
The CBCN has historically played an active role in national discourse by commenting on governance, democracy, elections, corruption, security, and social justice. Over the years, the body has consistently called on political leaders to place the welfare of Nigerians above partisan interests and to pursue policies that foster inclusive development.
Kwankwaso's endorsement of the bishops' position adds to the growing voices from political leaders, civil society organisations, and religious groups urging authorities to address Nigeria's economic and security challenges with greater urgency.
Nigeria has continued to grapple with high inflation, fluctuating food prices, unemployment, insecurity, and pressure on household incomes. These issues have dominated public discussions in recent months as many citizens seek practical solutions capable of improving living standards and restoring confidence in the country's future.
The former governor concluded by expressing optimism that with visionary leadership, national unity, and sustained public participation, Nigeria can overcome its present challenges and unlock its vast potential for growth and development.
