Catholic Church Mobilizes for Change: Bishops Chart Course for Justice, Voter Education Ahead of 2027 Polls

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

​In a significant show of commitment to national renewal, the Church and Society Department of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria recently concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja. Over two intensive days, the event brought together the directors and secretaries of the five critical units—Education, Family and Human Life, Health, JDPC, and Migration—to unify strategies for implementing the Church's social mission across the country.

​The crucial gathering was elevated by the presence of key ecclesiastical leaders, including the Department's Board Chairman, Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Luka Gopep of Minna, underscoring the hierarchy's full backing of the department's work.

​Responding to a Critical Time

​In his address, Rev Fr Michael Banjo reflected on the profound dedication shown by all present, particularly given the "critical time" the nation currently faces. He highlighted the department's enduring efforts to combat injustice, insecurity, and hardship, emphasizing their role as the Church's "first responders" in society.

​A central theme of the AGM was the continued effort to firmly establish Catholic Social Teaching (CST) in the national consciousness. This includes a major initiative to develop and roll out CST textbooks for schools nationwide, ensuring that the foundational values of human dignity, solidarity, and peace become integral to the education of the next generation.

​Fr Banjo powerfully reminded the participants that their mission is to rekindle hope, advocate relentlessly for human dignity, and stand in unwavering solidarity with the communities most affected by the nation’s systemic challenges.

​A Roadmap of Urgent Action

​With the AGM's strategic session now concluded, the focus immediately shifts to implementation, translating resolutions into tangible action across all dioceses. The work ahead is both urgent and focused, targeting areas that will have the greatest impact on national life.

​Looking toward the future, the department has outlined specific priorities:

  • ​Intensified Voter Education will be a key effort leading up to the 2027 General Elections, aimed at empowering citizens for informed participation.
  • ​Justice and Prison Reforms are slated for significant attention, making a practical difference in the Jubilee Year of Hope.
  • ​Crucially, there is a renewed call for improved collaboration among all units to amplify the core CST values and fulfill the collective mission of building a nation rooted in justice, peace, and the dignity of every human life.

​The Church has clearly signaled its intention to move beyond reflection and prayer into decisive action, ensuring its presence is felt exactly where people need it most.

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