Tinubu Pledges Stronger Interfaith Ties to Deepen Peace, Tackle Insecurity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with religious leaders to promote peace, tolerance, and national unity, describing interfaith dialogue as critical to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

Speaking on Saturday in Abuja while receiving Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, the President said sustained collaboration among religious groups remains essential in fostering harmony across the country’s diverse communities.

Tinubu emphasised that faith leaders play a vital role in shaping public values and calming tensions, urging them to continue preaching peace and tolerance. He noted that Nigeria cannot afford to relent in promoting unity, particularly at a time when security concerns persist in parts of the country.

“My administration will continue to work on religious harmony among all faiths. Religious leaders have been doing a great deal. They must sustain their efforts in promoting peace and tolerance,” the President said.

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The meeting, held at the President’s residence, was attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, who introduced the visiting Vatican envoy.

Reflecting on his longstanding relationship with the Catholic Church, Tinubu recalled his tenure as governor of Lagos State, where he supported the return of mission schools to their original religious owners. He said the decision was driven by his belief in the Church’s contributions to education and healthcare delivery.

He commended the Catholic Church for its continued role in expanding access to education, health services, and humanitarian support across Nigeria, noting that such efforts complement government initiatives.

The President also highlighted his administration’s commitment to protecting freedom of worship, stressing that Nigeria remains open and inclusive to all faiths. He pointed to the diversity within his own family as a reflection of the country’s religious tolerance.

On security, Tinubu assured his guest that the military has recorded notable progress in recent operations and remains focused on consolidating these gains. He said increased resources are being deployed to strengthen surveillance and secure previously ungoverned areas.

He added that the government is investing in youth development to reduce vulnerability to radicalisation and prevent exploitation by extremist groups.

Archbishop Gallagher, who is in Nigeria to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Holy See, described the country as strategic to the Catholic Church due to its large and active Catholic population.

He conveyed Pope Leo XIV’s appreciation to President Tinubu for attending his inauguration, noting that the gesture underscored Nigeria’s importance on the global stage.

The Archbishop commended the President’s efforts in promoting peace and acknowledged the role of Nigeria’s military in stabilisation efforts. He encouraged continued commitment to dialogue and development as pathways to lasting security.

Gallagher also praised the progress of Catholic institutions in Nigeria, including Veritas University in Abuja, describing their impact as significant.

He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for its cooperation with the Church, particularly in facilitating visas for bishops and supporting its activities.

The Vatican envoy said he looks forward to receiving Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Holy See in the coming weeks and indicated that his visit would pave the way for deeper engagement between both parties.

Other members of the delegation included senior officials from the Vatican’s Secretariat of State and the Apostolic Nunciature in Nigeria.