By Omeiza AjayiABUJA—The federal government has restated its readiness to deepen consultations with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, and other faith-based groups, insisting that many of Nigeria’s challenges could only be resolved through sustained partnership with religious and civil society institutions. The SGF explained that the discussions between the President and the Bishops were candid, respectful and constructive, touching on security, economic hardship, public services, education, electoral credibility, political pluralism and religious freedom. He disclosed that government was also sustaining dialogue and conflict prevention through the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, NIREC, describing collaboration with religious institutions as indispensable to advancing national interest. He also reaffirmed profound respect for the Catholic Church’s contributions to Nigeria’s development through education, healthcare, humanitarian services, peace-building and moral guidance. He said government would continue to welcome sincere counsel from respected national institutions, noting that no responsible administration should turn away from the concerns of its people.