The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria is advocating for the adoption of advanced technology and improved remuneration for security personnel to tackle insecurity. They propose job creation in agriculture and stress the need for national integration and active citizen participation in elections, while also acknowledging recent positive developments by the government.
In a recent communiqué, members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) urged both state and federal governments to implement advanced technological measures to enhance intelligence gathering and alleviate security issues in the country. This call was made following their First Plenary Assembly, which took place from March 8 to 14 at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in Abuja.
The Bishops emphasized the importance of providing better compensation for security personnel to enhance their motivation. They stated, “For the provision of security of life and property in our nation, we urge that governments at all levels deploy high technology… to complement the efforts of security agencies for efficient intelligence gathering.”
Additionally, the CBCN proposed the need for creating job opportunities through agricultural investments. They noted that fostering youth involvement in agriculture could lead to improved food production and reduced costs nationwide. They stated, “With improved security and safety for farmers, there will be greater production of food and reduction in the escalated cost of food all over Nigeria.”
The Bishops have also addressed the importance of fostering national integration and urged political, religious, and traditional leaders to promote unity. They highlighted challenges to integration, such as the recent closure of schools during Ramadan, advocating for the immediate reversal of such policies to uphold children’s educational rights.
The CBCN members encouraged Nigerians to learn from the disappointments of the 2023 general elections and to actively participate in future electoral processes. They called for stronger electoral laws and honesty in governmental operations to restore public trust in the electoral system.
While expressing critiques, the Bishops acknowledged recent governmental progress, including improvements to the Petroleum Industry, rehabilitation of infrastructure, and the introduction of beneficial policies such as a student loan scheme and a new minimum wage. They appreciated these positive developments as steps toward national development.
In summary, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria are advocating for the use of advanced technology and improved conditions for security personnel to effectively address insecurity. They emphasize the importance of job creation in agriculture, national integration, and citizen participation in elections. Additionally, they recognize the government’s achievements while calling for further improvements, highlighting a collective responsibility toward enhancing the nation’s future.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
