President Bola Tinubu reassured Catholic bishops about his commitment to economic reforms, emphasizing the removal of fuel subsidies as essential to prevent bankruptcy. He highlighted ongoing tax reforms and efforts against insecurity while advocating for religious tolerance. The bishops acknowledged the challenges of his policies and requested public reassurance in governance, along with a call to end public funding for religious pilgrimages.
President Bola Tinubu has communicated to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria his awareness of the difficulties that Nigerians face. He asserts that ongoing economic reforms are essential for fostering a more resilient nation. During a meeting with the bishops in Abuja, he advocated for the removal of fuel subsidies as a vital step to prevent financial collapse.
President Tinubu expressed that, while the removal of fuel subsidies was a challenging decision, it was crucial to avert national bankruptcy. He remarked, “Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country.” He emphasized the need to safeguard the future for upcoming generations by addressing prevalent poverty, which he noted affects all individuals regardless of their religious affiliations.
Additionally, he introduced his administration’s tax reforms, portraying them as a means for citizens to contribute towards their country’s development. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts in combating insecurity in Nigeria, noting that both Christian and Muslim communities are impacted by these challenges.
Reiterating his commitment to religious tolerance, President Tinubu highlighted his wife’s role as a pastor, stating, “I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot… This country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry.”
In response to the bishops’ concerns regarding the return of mission schools taken over by the government, he explained that those decisions fall under state jurisdiction, although he noted his past efforts in returning mission schools during his tenure as governor.
The bishops, led by Most Reverend Lucius Ugorji, extended their congratulations to President Tinubu on his election and acknowledged the hurdles posed by his economic policies. They urged for enhanced public confidence, improved security, and efforts toward religious harmony, with Ugorji citing, “Your government’s policy mantra is anchored on the principles of Renewed Hope.”
Furthermore, the bishops called on the government to cease funding religious pilgrimages, proposing that public funds be redirected to pressing national concerns. Ugorji articulated that the national and state pilgrims’ boards have been ineffective, stating, “… the national and state pilgrims’ boards serve neither their adherents nor the broader interest of the nation.”
The meeting was graced by high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu has expressed a clear commitment to necessary economic reforms aimed at securing Nigeria’s future. His dedication to combating poverty and ensuring religious tolerance remains evident, alongside his administration’s focus on addressing insecurity. The bishops support his efforts but advocate for increased public confidence and a shift in governmental funding priorities related to religious activities.
Original Source: punchng.com
