Tinubu Tasks Religious Leaders on Peace, National Devt
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on religious leaders in Nigeria to continue promoting interfaith harmony, denouncing violence, and fostering reconciliation in conflict-prone communities, stressing that their role is indispensable to peace and national development.
The President made the appeal on Sunday at the opening of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Tinubu described faith leaders as a “vital bridge for peace, unity, and moral renewal”, commending Catholic bishops and clerics of other denominations for consistently promoting dialogue and tolerance despite Nigeria’s diversity.
“Genuine reconciliation and national cohesion can only be achieved when spiritual leaders continue to preach peace and actively discourage extremism, hatred, and divisive tendencies,” the President said.
President Tinubu praised the Catholic Church for its contributions in education, healthcare, and social welfare, especially in underserved communities.
“You have stood with the people in times of hardship, provided comfort in grief, and raised your voice against injustice and corruption. I encourage you to continue speaking truth to power, not only to government but to all sectors of society,” he noted.
He urged faith leaders to complement government’s efforts by nurturing values of honesty, hard work, and compassion among their followers, while also offering constructive solutions to national challenges.
Speaking on his administration’s policies, Tinubu said bold steps have been taken to stabilise the economy, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of exchange rates, and measures to curb financial leakages.
Although demanding sacrifices in the short term, the President insisted the reforms are designed to build a sustainable economic foundation that will attract investment, create jobs, and boost productivity in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.
“Good governance is not just about economic growth; it is about justice, fairness, transparency, accountability, and the dignity of every Nigerian. It is also about ensuring that no one is left behind—whether in rural or urban communities, rich or poor, majority or minority,” Tinubu said.
He added that the Federal Government remains committed to tackling insecurity, expanding social investment programmes, and revitalising infrastructure to create an enabling environment where Nigerians can live in peace and fulfil their potential.
Tinubu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s openness to deeper collaboration with the Catholic Church and other faith-based organisations in education, healthcare, social welfare, and skills development.
He further urged the Church to partner in advancing civic education, protecting the environment, and empowering young people.
“Together, we can tackle poverty, reduce inequality, and build stronger communities. Future generations must be equipped not only with knowledge but also with values that uphold the moral fabric of society,” he added.
The meeting, which brought together Catholic bishops from across Nigeria, also provided a platform for dialogue on the role of the Church in promoting peace, justice, and national unity.
