The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing engagements with relevant stakeholders to address concerns about security, social welfare, education, youth development and economic empowerment in Nigeria.
The secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, stated this when he addressed the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), held on Wednesday tand yesterday.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognises the legitimate concerns of Christians and other citizens regarding safety, equal opportunities, freedom of worship, access to justice and participation in national development.
Akume said the government remains committed to strengthening institutions that protect fundamental rights, uphold the rule of law and promote social inclusion.
“We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders in addressing concerns relating to security, social welfare, education, youth development and economic empowerment,” the SGF assured.
He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to maintaining an environment that allows the Christian community to continue making meaningful contributions to national development, noting that Christians have played critical roles in education, healthcare delivery, humanitarian services and community development across the country.
The SGF expressed confidence that deliberations at the NEC meeting would produce practical recommendations capable of strengthening national unity, promoting peace, advancing Christian welfare and contributing to Nigeria’s overall development aspirations.
Senator Akume described the Christian Association of Nigeria as a respected voice of conscience that has consistently advocated justice, peace, equity, national unity, good governance and the welfare of Christians in Nigeria.
He noted that the NEC meeting serves as CAN’s highest decision-making platform, providing an opportunity for reflection, strategic engagement and collective action on issues affecting the Church, the nation and humanity.
The SGF acknowledged that Nigeria, like many countries around the world, continues to face challenges arising from global economic uncertainties, security concerns, climate-related pressures, inflation, youth unemployment and social tensions.
Despite these challenges, he said Nigeria has continued to demonstrate resilience, strength and hope, adding that the Tinubu administration remains focused on building a stronger, more inclusive and prosperous nation through the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He highlighted ongoing government reforms aimed at stabilising the economy, improving infrastructure, enhancing food security, creating jobs, promoting social investment programmes, attracting investments and strengthening national security.
While acknowledging that some reforms have required sacrifices from citizens, Senator Akume said the government remains resolute in ensuring that the long-term benefits translate into improved living standards, economic opportunities, and sustainable development for all Nigerians.
The SGF also emphasised the critical role of the Church in nation-building, describing the Christian faith as a powerful force for moral transformation, social justice, education, healthcare delivery, community development and humanitarian service.
He commended churches across Nigeria for operating schools, hospitals, orphanages, rehabilitation centres, and other charitable initiatives that complement government efforts to promote human development and social welfare.
Senator Akume further reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to sustaining constructive engagement with CAN and other faith-based organisations on issues affecting national cohesion, security, religious freedom, education, youth empowerment, poverty alleviation and social justice.
He noted that sustainable national development requires collaboration among government, religious bodies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens.
The SGF also called on Nigerians to continue embracing peaceful coexistence, stressing that the country’s ethnic, cultural and religious diversity should serve as a source of strength and national enrichment rather than division.
He commended Christian and Muslim leaders for promoting dialogue, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence, urging them to remain ambassadors of peace, reconciliation, and national unity.
Senator Akume urged the Church to continue praying for the nation and its leaders while encouraging citizens to uphold the values of integrity, patriotism, compassion, accountability and responsible citizenship.
He expressed appreciation to the leadership of CAN for the invitation to participate in the NEC meeting. He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the Church, Nigeria’s leaders and the nation as a whole.
