Catholic bishops of the Lagos Ecclesiastical Province have called on the Federal Government to move from short-term palliative measures to sustainable empowerment strategies aimed at improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

A communiqué, jointly signed by the Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins (chairman), and the Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, Most Rev. Francis Adesina (Secretary), urged government officials to lead with integrity, honesty, justice, equality and the fear of God.

The meeting, held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Maryland, Lagos, which was the first plenary meeting for 2025, recorded representatives from Lagos Archdiocese, Ijebu-Ode, and Abeokuta Dioceses.

At the meeting, the bishops expressed worries over the state of the country and stressed the need to address the underlying structures that perpetuate poverty and inequality in the country.

The communique reads: “The economy struggles with rising inflation, unemployment and a widening gap between the rich and the poor. These issues, among others, led to the tragic loss of over 100 lives in December last year during the struggle to access palliatives. This tragedy highlights the urgent need to transition from a ‘palliative mentality’ to an ’empowerment culture.’ Such a shift will restore the dignity and pride of citizens and contribute to a genuine reduction in poverty rates.”

The clerics also called for a collective effort involving government officials, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance.

“By working together, we can build a nation that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all,” the communiqué added.

The bishops further expressed concern over the deplorable living conditions of internally displaced persons (IDPs), migrants and refugees in Nigeria. They urged the government to prioritise the welfare of vulnerable groups by providing adequate care, protection and support.

They also urged Nigerians to unite and set aside their differences to build a nation characterised by peace, justice, and prosperity, saying: “Together, we can create a brighter and better Nigeria.”