The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has attributed Nigerians’ suffering to their refusal to embrace “light” and liberation from “darkness.”
In his Christmas message delivered at the Holy Family Cathedral Catholic Church, Sokoto Diocese, on Tuesday night, the bishop emphasized the transformative power of transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service, politics, and individual conduct.
“Nigeria’s lack of visible and measurable progress is tied to the fact that we have chosen darkness rather than light,” he said. “Imagine if we let the light shine on our public service, on our politics, on our individual, community, and national life, and on our public institutions. Imagine what Nigeria would be like if we chose light instead of darkness.”
He further highlighted the importance of unity, love, and breaking free from constraints such as ethnicity, nepotism, and greed. “They will know we are Christians by our love,” he remarked.
“We are still unable to embrace the ideals of our national anthem that says: ‘Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand.’ Diversity is a gift from God. Let us use it effectively as a tool for national mobilization and cohesion,” he advised.
Bishop Kukah also lauded the 2018 passage of the Not Too Young to Run Bill, which increased youth participation in politics. However, he expressed concerns over persistent challenges such as the high costs of political participation and internal democracy, which continue to hinder active youth engagement.
He commended the federal government for the enactment of the 2024 *Student Loan Act* and the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. These initiatives, he said, hold promise for expanding opportunities for Nigerian youth, including those pursuing vocational and technical skills.
“It is significant that the Act does not limit access to university students alone. We hope this project will be free of bureaucratic bottlenecks and favoritism, ensuring that poverty does not exclude anyone from receiving a good education,” Kukah stated.
The bishop also urged young people to fully utilize these opportunities while addressing the nation’s ongoing security challenges, which he described as a persistent obstacle to stability and progress.
Kukah concluded by calling on all Nigerians to choose the path of light, unity, and love, emphasizing that these values are essential for the nation’s development and greatness.
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