Catholic Bishops have urged Nigerians to begin an early conscious preparation for the 2027 general elections, warning that credible polls would require sustained civic engagement and a renewed commitment to the common good.
Cardinal John Onaiyekan stated this on Sunday when he presented the communique of a recent meeting of the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) to the congregation at the Church of the Assumption Asokoro-Abuja.
He said the Church would encourage parishes across the country to organise civic-education programmes and other activities aimed at helping citizens understand their responsibilities in the electoral process.
“We call on all citizens to prepare conscientiously for the 2027 elections,” Onaiyekan said, adding that the Church’s position would be outlined in a new pastoral letter to be published soon.
He said Catholic parishes would be encouraged to hold monthly capacity-building sessions and Rosary processions from October through December 2027.
NewsQuest reports that the timing of the Church’ activities would however come three-months ahead of the 2027 general election, which will hold in January next year.
According to Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Church has also declared December 8, 2026, a national day of prayer and fasting for free, fair and credible elections.
Nigeria faces serious challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship and weak national cohesion. But Onaiyekan said the country should not surrender to despair.
“Though our nation faces severe challenges of security, the economy and national integration, we firmly declare that all hope is not lost,” he said.
He added that progress would depend on citizens and leaders embracing moral integrity, respecting human life and taking practical steps to strengthen the country.
The Church called for “a renewed politics centred on the common good,” rather than one driven by personal interest, division or the pursuit of power for its own sake.
Other parts of the communique issued by the Bishops include a strong position emphasizing the protection of human dignity, opposing violence, and guiding ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technology.
The Bishops also urged for reforms to the nation’s security, infrastructure, and foreign aid bill currently before the National Assembly for consideration and passage.
Specifically, the Bishops expressed grave concern regarding the Foreign Aid Regulation Transparency and Disclosure Bill 2026, arguing that it grants excessive discretionary authority to government officials and threatens religious freedom.
