Vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has backed the position taken by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria during its recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.

In a post on his verified X account, Kwankwaso commended the bishops for what he described as their courage and patriotism in drawing attention to the challenges confronting the country.

He rejected suggestions that the bishops’ concerns over the rising cost of living, worsening insecurity, declining public confidence and the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians were politically motivated.

According to the former Kano State governor, the issues raised by the clerics reflect the daily realities experienced by ordinary Nigerians across every part of the country.

Kwankwaso lamented that millions of citizens continue to grapple with economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, poor access to quality education and healthcare, and shrinking economic opportunities despite Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources.

He said the country’s challenges require urgent, sincere and people-centred responses from those entrusted with leadership.

The former governor also called on Nigerians to continue engaging constructively with the Federal Government and leaders at all levels, advocating good governance, accountability and policies that prioritise the security, welfare and prosperity of the people.

“I commend the Catholic Bishops for their courage and patriotism. It is through such collective commitment and responsible leadership that we can build a more peaceful, united, and prosperous Nigeria.

“May Almighty Allah continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he wrote.