The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has declared that Nigeria possesses sufficient resources and capabilities to not only manage its own affairs but also support its neighbouring countries.
He dismissed the notion that international figures, including religious leaders like the Pope, bear responsibility for Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
In an exclusive interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, Bishop Kukah spoke candidly about his recent trip to Rome for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV.
He reflected on the global influence of the papacy, the role of religious institutions, and the pressing leadership challenges confronting Nigeria and the African continent.
Bishop Kukah rejected the idea that Africa’s problems can be solved by external actors, emphasizing Nigeria’s unique strengths.
“I’m a very proud Nigerian. Nigeria is not Sudan, we are not Gaza, Syria, or Libya. Nigeria is a formidable nation with vast resources that can sustain itself and help its neighbours,” he said.
He insisted that while religious leaders can provide moral guidance, the onus to tackle corruption, mismanagement, and poor governance lies firmly with African leaders themselves.
“It is not the job of the Pope to dictate how Nigeria manages its resources or addresses its corruption. That responsibility rests with us,” Kukah added.
Recounting his experience at the papal inauguration, the bishop highlighted the significance of President Bola Tinubu’s attendance—the first time a Nigerian president has been present at such an event.
Kukah noted a personal connection between Pope Leo XIV and Tinubu, both having links to Chicago, adding a symbolic dimension to the event.
The bishop also reflected on Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2023, where the pontiff urged the international community to “take its hands off Africa.”
Kukah stressed that the pope’s moral support should not be mistaken for political interference or solutions to Africa’s governance crises.
“It is not the Pope’s fault, nor his business, to resolve why politics in Nigeria and other African countries have become a criminal enterprise,” Kukah concluded..
“The solution must come from within—African leaders and citizens must take charge of their destiny.”
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