Catholic Church in Nigeria Commits to Deeper Support for Refugees, Calls for Collaboration with Government

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the care and integration of refugees and displaced persons across the country. This was the central focus during an interactive session organized by the Migrants and Refugees Unit of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) to commemorate the 2025 UN-designated annual global World Refugee Day on Thursday, June 19, at the Catholic Secretariat in Abuja.

With the theme “Solidarity with Refugees,” the event brought together CSN staff, members of the clergy, pastoral agents, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and refugees from within and outside Nigeria—particularly those supported by the Endam Home of Hope.

In his welcome address, the Secretary General of the CSN, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, emphasized that in the Catholic Church, “there are no refugees—only members of one universal family.” He stressed that solidarity must go beyond pity to concrete action, including dignified employment, psycho-social support, and community integration.

“Refugees need more than our sympathy. They need support, opportunity, and restoration. Even Jesus was a refugee—taken into Egypt to escape the violence of King Herod. Our response must be spiritual, emotional, and practical,” Fr. Banjo said.

The Secretary General further called for stronger collaboration between the Church and government agencies in developing policies and programs that promote the dignity and well-being of displaced persons in the country.

The Episcopal Secretary for the Migrants and Refugees Unit, Department of Church and Society, CSN, Rev. Fr. Augustine Akhogba, in his opening remarks, reaffirmed the Church’s historical role in protecting the vulnerable, stating:

“From the early days of the Church, we have always stood with the displaced. Today, through the Migrants and Refugees Unit, the CBCN continues to serve as a voice and a refuge for those who have been forced to flee due to war, persecution, and injustice.”

Several refugees also shared testimonies of transformation through the support of the Endam Home of Hope.

Angela Lum Ngwa Mformuluh, a former university worker from Cameroon, now runs a successful business in Nigeria and has trained others in her field.
Mrs. Habibah and Edidiong Patrick, both Nigerian displaced persons, spoke about acquiring vocational skills through Endam’s programs.
Barrister Nukuna Zemkwe, a lawyer from Southern Cameroon, praised the organization for helping restore a sense of purpose to many who had lost everything.

“Refugees have a lot to offer society. We just need the right support and space to thrive,” Edidiong said.

Endam Home of Hope is a non-governmental organization established by Cameroonian refugee Yvonne Endam. The organization provides shelter, skills training, and support for integration.

The event concluded with with a Holy Mass, a special prayer and the presentation of gifts to the refugees by the CSN community.