SGF George Akume Confirms Tinubu’s Plan to Strengthen Dialogue with Catholic Bishops and Stakeholders
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration intends to deepen its engagement with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, faith‑based organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders in order to address the nation’s security, economic and social challenges.
Akume dismissed rumours that the government is moving toward a one‑party state, insisting that Tinubu remains committed to a multi‑party democracy and credible elections.
He stressed that the Federal Government welcomes constructive criticism and will continue to govern through dialogue, accountability and evidence‑based policies.
“The Federal Government neither seeks nor supports a one‑party state,” Akume declared, adding that the administration respects the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation will keep consulting the Catholic Bishops, other religious bodies and relevant stakeholders to build consensus on national issues.
Faith communities, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens all have indispensable roles to play in promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and advancing national development.
Akume described the Catholic Church as one of Nigeria’s major development partners, noting its contributions to education, healthcare, humanitarian intervention, peacebuilding and moral leadership.
The recent meeting between President Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops was frank and constructive, covering insecurity, economic hardship, education, public services, electoral credibility, political pluralism and religious freedom.
Both sides acknowledged progress made by the administration, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) programme and recent security operations that rescued abducted schoolchildren and teachers.
On the economy, Akume recognised the current hardships but characterised them as a temporary phase arising from reforms aimed at correcting long‑standing structural challenges.
He said the policies are designed to restore macroeconomic stability, attract investment and place the economy on a sustainable growth path.
Ongoing infrastructure projects cited include the Lagos‑Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto‑Badagry Super Highway, nationwide road rehabilitation, agricultural support initiatives, electricity reforms and expanded social intervention programmes, all intended to improve living standards.
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