The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has expressed renewed concern over Nigeria’s condition, describing the country as mired in persistent instability fueled by insecurity, weak leadership, and growing public frustration.
In his 2026 Easter message titled “Faith and Hope in Times of Turbulence,” Kukah said Nigeria’s prolonged challenges have left many citizens weary and uncertain about the future.
“Turbulence is Nigeria’s surname,” he stated, noting that instability has become a defining feature of national life.
Speaking on the deteriorating security situation, the cleric described the country as facing a humanitarian crisis, citing the scale of violence recorded over the years.
“After over 20 years and well over 20,000 corpses, the grim harvester still roams freely. Our nation has become a field hospital,” he said.
Kukah also pointed to a decline in public trust in government institutions, including the military, warning that the disconnect between leadership intentions and outcomes has deepened citizens’ frustrations.
“Citizens feel that there is a misstep between will, intention and purpose,” he said, adding that worsening conditions have driven some individuals into collaboration with criminal elements.
He criticised political leaders for failing to address key issues such as poverty and unemployment, describing the country as burdened with unfulfilled promises.
“The Nigerian landscape is still riddled with unredeemed promissory notes. Unemployment is smothering the dreams of young people,” he said.
The bishop further condemned the reliance on short-term relief measures, arguing that they reflect a failure to establish sustainable systems.
“Distributing food is an admission of failure to build sustainable structures to end hunger,” he added.
Despite his concerns, Kukah called on Nigerians not to lose hope, urging collective action alongside faith.
“We may be struck down, but we cannot be destroyed. Let us not surrender to despair, lest we become guilty bystanders,” he said.
He concluded with a call for both prayer and hard work, warning that while the nation faces serious challenges, recovery remains possible.
“The boat of our nation is threatening to sink, yet the Lord can command the storm to be still. We must pray, but we must also work hard,” he said.
The message comes as Christians across Nigeria mark Easter amid economic hardship and increasing calls for reform.
