**Catholic Bishops Call for Urgent Action to Tackle Nigeria's Security Challenges and Tax Reforms** As Nigeria continues to grapple with rising insecurity and economic challenges, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has urged the federal government to take bold and decisive action to address these issues. The call comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, which are expected to be a major test of the country's democratic credentials. At the opening of the CBCN's 2026 First Plenary Meeting in Abuja, the conference's president, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, painted a dire picture of the country's security situation. He highlighted the repeated kidnappings and mass killings across several states, describing the situation as "deeply troubling". The CBCN leader condemned the reported killings in Kwara state, where gunmen were exploiting gaps in the security architecture to wreak havoc on communities with little resistance. Ugorji's comments are a stark reminder of the security challenges facing Nigeria, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the north-east and the resurgence of banditry in other parts of the country. While the government has taken steps to address the situation, including declaring a national security emergency, the CBCN leader believes that more needs to be done to tackle the root causes of insecurity. One potential solution, according to Ugorji, is to invest in modern technological equipment for surveillance, which would enable security agencies to better monitor and respond to threats. This is a critical step towards creating a safer and more secure environment for all Nigerians, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. In addition to addressing security concerns, the CBCN has also expressed concerns about the impact of the 2025 Tax Act, which took effect in January 2026. While acknowledging the potential benefits of the reform, Ugorji warned that it could lead to hardship and push more jobless youths into criminality. He urged the government to educate and sensitise the public about the reform policy to douse the tension around it. The CBCN's call for action is a timely reminder that Nigeria's security and economic challenges are not just the responsibility of the government, but also require the collective effort of all stakeholders. By working together, Nigerians can create a brighter future for themselves and their children. As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, the CBCN's message is clear: leadership matters, and Nigeria needs leaders who will put the common good above