- Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah urged Nigerians to hold leaders accountable and actively participate in nation-building during a keynote address in Lagos
- Kukah emphasized the importance of civil society in fostering positive change and called for people-centred policies from political leaders
Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Kukah, has called on Nigerians to hold political leaders accountable for their campaign promises and to participate in nation-building actively.
Kukah made this statement during a keynote address at the centenary public lecture and awards ceremony of the Catholic Herald in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, which was themed “The Nigerian State: Transcending Challenges, Attending True Nationhood,” Kukah emphasized that the strength and quality of civil society greatly influence positive change within a nation.
He urged political leaders to adopt people-centered policies and involve citizens in project planning and execution to ensure they meet the needs of the masses.
“Nigeria’s journey to nationhood should be a concern for all citizens, with a focus on reaching the desired destination. Pray that God renews our strength to champion just causes,” Kukah said. He further noted that nation-building requires patriotic zeal and dedication.
The event, held at the Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Victoria Island, marked the 100th anniversary of Catholic Herald, Nigeria’s oldest surviving newspaper.
The Catholic Herald played a vital role in advocating for Nigeria’s independence and remains committed to stirring public discourse to advance societal development.
The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Adewale Martins, also highlighted the newspaper’s significant contributions during the pre-independence era and its continued evangelism and public enlightenment efforts.
He encouraged the editorial team to expand the scope of their work to impact society further.