By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with religious leaders to promote peace, tolerance and interfaith dialogue across Nigeria. The President made the pledge on Saturday in Abuja while receiving Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations. During the meeting, both leaders discussed security, religious harmony, education and stronger ties between Nigeria and the Holy See. Tinubu stressed that sustained collaboration with faith leaders remains essential to addressing insecurity and strengthening national unity.
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Harmony
President Tinubu said interfaith dialogue remains the most effective path to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. He noted that religious leaders continue to play a vital role in promoting peace and peaceful coexistence.
The President recalled his longstanding relationship with the Catholic Church, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State. He praised the Church’s contributions to education, healthcare and humanitarian services across Nigeria.
Tinubu explained that his appreciation for the Church’s role influenced his decision to return mission schools to their original owners after becoming governor. Those schools had been taken over during previous military administrations.
President Commends Pope Leo XIV
President Tinubu expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV and described his attendance at the Pope’s inauguration as a historic moment.
“I appreciate the Pope. It was an honour for me to lead the Nigerian delegation to his inauguration as Pope Leo XIV. It was a moment of history,” the President said.
He added that the Pope’s efforts to promote global peace continue to inspire millions worldwide.
“I look forward to receiving him in Nigeria,” Tinubu stated.
The President also urged Catholic bishops and other religious leaders to sustain their efforts in preaching peace and tolerance.
“Our Bishops and religious leaders have been doing a great deal. Please encourage them to continue their good work. Let them keep preaching peace and tolerance because Nigeria needs it,” he said.
Government Expands Security and Youth Development Efforts
Tinubu assured Archbishop Gallagher that the Nigerian Armed Forces have recorded significant progress against insecurity. He, however, stressed that the government remains vigilant because isolated attacks could undermine previous gains.
According to the President, the administration has increased security funding and strengthened surveillance, especially in previously ungoverned areas.
He also said the government is investing heavily in young people through programmes that reduce unemployment and discourage recruitment by terrorist groups.
Furthermore, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting freedom of worship across the country.
He noted that his wife’s role as a pastor demonstrates that religious differences do not define his administration’s policies.
Vatican Envoy Commends Nigeria’s Strategic Importance
Archbishop Paul Gallagher said he visited Nigeria to participate in activities marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Holy See.
He described Nigeria as strategically important to the Catholic Church because of its vibrant Catholic population.
The Archbishop conveyed Pope Leo XIV’s appreciation for President Tinubu’s attendance at the papal inauguration.
He also praised the growth of Veritas University in Abuja and described Nigeria as the heart of Africa, noting the significant work of Catholic bishops across the continent.
In addition, Gallagher commended President Tinubu’s efforts to improve national security through military operations. He encouraged the government to sustain its commitment to peace and stability.
The Vatican envoy thanked the Nigerian government for facilitating visas for Catholic bishops and responding positively to the Church’s requests.
Finally, Gallagher announced that he expects to receive Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Holy See within the coming weeks. He added that his visit would mark the beginning of more high-level engagements between Nigeria and the Vatican.
Archbishop Gallagher was accompanied by Archbishop Michael F. Crotty, Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria; Monsignor Suman Paul Anthony of the Secretariat of State; and Monsignor Patarne Koyassambia-Kozondo, First Secretary of the Apostolic Nunciature in Nigeria.
