The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called for stronger collaboration with traditional rulers to tackle insecurity, violence, poverty and other challenges threatening national unity.
The President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, made the call on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by Catholic bishops to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The bishops are in the state for the Second Plenary Assembly of the CBCN, hosted by the Catholic Diocese of Osogbo from September 10 to 18, 2026.
Ndagoso said traditional and religious institutions had important complementary roles in strengthening communities and promoting peaceful coexistence.
He said Nigeria’s challenges, including insecurity, poverty, corruption, unemployment and ethnic and religious divisions, required a collective response involving government, traditional institutions, religious bodies and citizens.
“The Catholic Church recognises the traditional institution as an important partner in preserving history and cultural values, strengthening communal bonds and providing counsel,” he said.
The archbishop said the Church was ready to deepen its partnership with traditional institutions through dialogue, education, healthcare and humanitarian initiatives, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences.
Ndagoso also urged Nigerians to reject vote-buying and demanded transparent, free, fair and credible elections.
He commended the Ooni for his efforts toward peace, national unity and youth development, describing Ile-Ife as the cradle of Yoruba culture and the Ooni’s throne as a symbol of the people’s history and heritage.
Responding, Ooni Ogunwusi commended the Catholic Church for its service to humanity and its contributions to the development of society.
The monarch, who is also Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, said the Church had earned considerable respect through its advocacy, discipline, prayers and humanitarian activities.
“Thank you for coming to Ife, where it all began. In our country, we don’t joke with bishops. Their voices are very powerful; anything you say, the entire country and even the continent usually feel it,” the Ooni said.
“I grew up in the midst of the Catholic community. I am so happy that I am in your midst today. The Catholic mission is so disciplined; everything is very organised,he added.
The Ooni also praised Catholic clergy for their sacrifice and dedication to humanity, saying their contributions to society deserved appreciation.
