IBADAN, Nigeria, January 20, 2026 – The Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have issued a communique following their first meeting of 2026, held from January 19-20 at the Jubilee Conference Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State. Representing the Archdiocese of Ibadan and the Dioceses of Ilorin, Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti, and Osogbo, the bishops reflected on key spiritual and national issues, emphasizing hope, social responsibility, and good governance.
Advancing the Mission of Jesus Christ
The bishops reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to the saving mission of Jesus Christ, which brings liberty to captives, hope to the oppressed, and good news to the poor. They highlighted the recently concluded Jubilee Year of Hope, encouraging the faithful to continue promoting the Church’s Social Teachings, including the principles of human dignity, solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good. Experts, priests, and religious leaders are urged to study and disseminate these teachings as tools for societal development and citizen formation.
Strengthening Catechesis
The bishops stressed the foundational role of catechesis in nurturing discipleship and deepening understanding of Scripture and Sacred Tradition. They endorsed the Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church (YOUCAT), as a primary resource for adult and youth catechetical formation, calling on families, teachers, and pastors to integrate it into spiritual and educational programs across the province.
Addressing National Challenges
The communique also addressed pressing national issues:
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Insecurity: The bishops applauded the Federal Government’s renewed efforts to curb insecurity and urged sustained political will, intergovernmental collaboration, adequate funding, and equal enforcement of the law. They called on Nigerians to unite in protecting life and property.
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Tax Reforms: While acknowledging public concerns, the bishops urged government authorities to implement tax reforms with fairness, transparency, and accountability, giving citizens time to adjust.
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Education: The recent resolution of the 16-year-old university strike with ASUU was commended. The bishops called for similar attention to private and mission universities, as well as continued investment in youth empowerment, skills development, and infrastructure improvements at all educational levels.
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Healthcare and Infrastructure: The bishops highlighted the urgent need to resolve the ongoing health workers’ strike, improve critical infrastructure including roads, electricity, and water supply, and provide social amenities for Nigerians.
Prayer and Good Works
The bishops concluded by urging all Nigerians to pair prayer with concrete action, promoting justice, equity, and the rule of law. They called for a national spirit of hope, unity, and responsibility, citing the Prophet Ezekiel’s vision of a renewed and committed people of God.
The bishops’ communique emphasizes a holistic approach to national renewal: spiritual formation, social responsibility, and active participation in building a more just, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
