The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) is currently hosting its Second Plenary for 2025, taking place from September 11-19 at the Retreat and Youth Development Center in Nko, Obot Akara LGA, Akwa Ibom under the auspices of the Catholic Diocese of Ikot Ekpene. The event commenced with a special Mass celebrated by the President of the CBCN, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, marking the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross.

This deeply inspiring gathering brought together eminent dignitaries, including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume. Other attendees included the President of the Nigerian Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio; the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno; the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty; the Bishop of Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Most Rev. Camillus Umoh; top government officials, and numerous Catholic Bishops from across the nation.

In his address, Sen. Akume commended the Church as a moral compass and essential partner in nation-building. “On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I reiterate our government’s commitment to renewing hope, stabilizing the economy, tackling insecurity, and ensuring justice and inclusivity,” he stated. “Faith leaders must continue to foster moral renewal, unity, interfaith harmony, and patriotism. Nigeria's diversity is our strength; together—government, Church, and citizens—we must build a just, peaceful, and prosperous nation where no one is left behind.”

Governor Pastor Eno welcomed the bishops, extending condolences on the passing of Pope Francis and congratulating them on the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ascend to the papacy.

He said, “The Catholic Church has played key roles all over the world, from democratic, authoritarian, and socialist systems, in demanding fair, equitable, and good governance that places the welfare of the people at the center of policy formulations and implementation. The Church has been a voice of moral suasion, insisting on human rights and humane treatment of migrants, especially those who obey the laws of the nations they have been accepted to reside in, given the fast-expanding borderless or globalized world we currently inhabit.”

Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, in his address, highlighted the vital mission of the Church to serve as a beacon of hope and love, affirming that the Church must remain steadfast in its commitment to the marginalized and voiceless in society. He urged the gathered leaders to work in unity for the common good.

Sen. Akpabio also emphasized the Church's influential role in advocating for democracy and human rights, stating, "We celebrate the contributions of Catholic priests and leaders who have bravely fought for justice and equity."

As the plenary session progresses, discussions will focus on various issues of national importance, further integrating the Church’s mission with community development and social justice initiatives. The ongoing gathering promises to be a pivotal moment for collaboration between faith leaders and governmental bodies, addressing the pressing challenges facing Nigeria today.