Archbishop John Cardinal Onaiyekan has said he was not surprised that President Bola Tinubu appeared unhappy during a meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the State House, Abuja.
According to Arise News on Saturday, August 1, 2026, Onaiyekan said the bishops presented what they believed to be the true state of the country, raising concerns about the economy, insecurity and the political climate rather than offering a favourable assessment.
He explained that the delegation felt obliged to convey the realities facing ordinary Nigerians, noting that many people around the President often present a more positive picture of the country.
Onaiyekan said President Tinubu clearly disagreed with the bishops’ assessment, but the delegation expected that response and considered it their responsibility to speak candidly.
He also expressed hope that the President’s advisers would encourage him to reflect on the issues raised, arguing that too few government officials speak honestly to the President about the country’s challenges.
“You asked me what I saw on the face of the President in reaction. I was not surprised that he was not looking very happy, nor were his colleagues who were there,” he said.
