President Tinubu reaffirms commitment to religious harmony, peace through interfaith dialogue

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting religious harmony, peace and tolerance across Nigeria, saying the Federal Government will continue to partner with religious leaders to strengthen interfaith dialogue and national unity.

The President stated this on Saturday while receiving the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, at his residence in Abuja. Archbishop Gallagher was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu.

Tinubu said sustained engagement among religious leaders remains one of the most effective ways of addressing Nigeria’s security challenges and fostering peaceful coexistence among citizens of different faiths.

The President recalled his longstanding relationship with the Catholic Church, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, noting that he has always recognised the Church’s contributions to education, healthcare and humanitarian services.

He explained that this conviction informed his decision to return mission schools to their original religious proprietors after assuming office as governor, following their takeover during previous military administrations.

Tinubu also praised Pope Leo XIV for his commitment to promoting global peace, describing it as an honour to have led Nigeria’s delegation to the Pope’s inauguration.

He expressed optimism that the Pope would visit Nigeria in the future.

“My administration will continue to work on religious harmony among all faiths. Our bishops and religious leaders have been doing a great deal. They should continue to preach peace and tolerance because we can never have too much of that,” the President said.

He assured the visiting Archbishop that his administration remains committed to protecting freedom of worship and ensuring every Nigerian practises his or her faith without intimidation.

Tinubu also highlighted ongoing government investments in security, stating that the military has recorded significant progress in combating insecurity through improved surveillance and increased deployment of resources, particularly in previously ungoverned areas.

According to him, the government is also investing in youth empowerment to reduce vulnerability to terrorism and violent extremism.

Speaking earlier, Archbishop Gallagher said he was in Nigeria to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Holy See.

He described Nigeria as strategically important to the Catholic Church because of its vibrant Catholic population and acknowledged President Tinubu’s attendance at Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration.

The Archbishop commended the Federal Government’s efforts in promoting peace and improving security, while also appreciating its support for the Catholic Church, including visa facilitation for bishops and responsiveness to the Church’s needs.

He expressed confidence that relations between Nigeria and the Holy See would continue to grow stronger through future engagements.