President Bola Tinubu has urged state governors to follow his lead by returning mission schools to the religious organizations that originally built them.
Speaking at a meeting with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) on Friday, March 14, Tinubu stressed that education falls under state jurisdiction and is not a direct responsibility of the Federal Government.
“I’ve been a good example as the governor of Lagos State. I returned all the mission schools,” Tinubu stated, according to a release by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Religious Leaders’ Longstanding Concerns
For decades, religious leaders have lamented the government’s takeover of mission schools, attributing it to the decline in education standards. Despite continuous calls for the schools’ return, little progress has been made.
During the meeting, Tinubu commended the Catholic Church for its commitment to education and healthcare, reiterating his administration’s focus on improving access to quality education.
Education Funding and Student Support
Tinubu highlighted the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a key initiative to ensure students do not drop out due to financial difficulties. He also pledged to explore ways to support students in private institutions, which NELFUND currently does not cover.
Defending Economic Reforms
Acknowledging the financial strain caused by fuel subsidy removal, Tinubu defended the policy as necessary for Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.
“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was tough for me, but Nigeria had to face it. We were spending the investment of the future of our children yet unborn,” he said.
Tackling Insecurity and Religious Unity
On national security, Tinubu reassured the bishops that his administration is making progress in addressing insecurity, emphasizing that all Nigerians, regardless of religious background, benefit from these efforts.
“This insecurity affects everyone, Christians, Muslims alike. I have no religious bias. My wife is a pastor, but above all, we must think of our country. Nigeria must develop beyond religious bigotry,” he stated.
CBCN’s Response and Call for Action
CBCN President and Archbishop of Owerri, Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, who led a delegation of 20 bishops, acknowledged the government’s reform efforts but urged for more decisive action to alleviate economic hardship and restore public confidence.
The clerics also called for a clear vision of religion as a force for moral integrity and national unity, without infringing on fundamental rights.
