The Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja has raised alarm over worsening insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria, urging the Federal Government to take urgent action to halt killings, banditry, and bloodshed across the country.
In a pastoral message signed by the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, and the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Sam Tumba, at the close of the 6th General Assembly themed “Faithfulness to the Liturgy: A Liturgical Vision for a Hopeful Future in Abuja Archdiocese”, the Church expressed concern that Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps are multiplying at a pace comparable to new estates in urban areas.
“Our hearts are heavy with concern for the persistent challenges facing our nation,” the statement read. “Because of our shared humanity, we cannot but be profoundly concerned for the dignity of every human life, from conception to natural death. Every life matters. We urge the government to take definitive actions to stop the incessant killings, terrorism, banditry, and economic hardships ravaging our people.”
The Archdiocese condemned recent attacks, including terrorist violence in Yelwata community, Benue State, and widespread kidnappings, describing them as “a grave affront to human dignity and a direct challenge to the fundamental right to life.”
Alongside its national appeal, the Archdiocese also released new liturgical guidelines for its priests, mandating proper attire during Mass. Priests were instructed to wear black shoes and trousers, avoiding coloured footwear such as sneakers, palm sandals, or canvas, as well as coloured trousers. They were further cautioned against incomplete dressing, such as wearing only the alb or cassock with a stole, during Mass celebrations.
The message reiterated the Church’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of life while ensuring liturgical discipline among its clergy.
