The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) serves as the principal administrative and coordinating organ of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). As the central executive body of the CBCN, the Secretariat supports the bishops in governance, facilitates policy implementation, and enhances collaboration across national pastoral programmes, apostolates, and ecclesial initiatives.

Established in 1956 and legally incorporated in 1958, the CSN stands as the most visible expression of unity, communion, and solidarity within the Catholic Church in Nigeria. It reflects the Church’s mission to accompany the People of God with professionalism, accountability, and pastoral fidelity.

The Secretariat’s structure brings together episcopal leadership, priestly management, and laity with professional expertise. Through its Departments, Directorates, and affiliated agencies, the CSN ensures a holistic response to the spiritual, social, educational, humanitarian, and developmental needs of the Nigerian populace. In doing so, it embodies the Church’s commitment to integral human development and the common good.

The Secretariat is headed by the Secretary-General, who, in collaboration with the CBCN, implements conference decisions at the national level. It coordinates the Church’s missionary activity, supports educational endeavours, and advances initiatives in human development that align with Gospel values and Catholic social teaching (see Catholic Social Teaching on Dignity of the Human Person and the Common Good).

The Secretariat’s vision is supported by a dedicated team — comprised of priests, members of religious orders, and lay professionals — organized across four principal departments, the Social Communications Directorate, and the National Catholic Service Centre. Staff members serve the Church both locally and internationally, representing the Catholic Church in engagements with governmental and non-governmental bodies.

In addition, the CSN facilitates the participation of Nigerian clergy, religious, and laity in national and global ecclesial gatherings, including synods, congresses, workshops, seminars, and retreats, thereby strengthening the Church’s witness at all levels of society.