September 15, (THEWILL) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on religious leaders across the country to intensify efforts in promoting peace, reconciliation, and national unity, describing them as critical partners in shaping values, reducing conflicts, and driving development.
The President made the call on Sunday in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, at the opening of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Tinubu commended the Catholic Church and other faith-based organisations for their longstanding contributions to education, healthcare, social welfare, and moral guidance, particularly in underserved communities.
“The Catholic Church has been a credible partner in the journey towards national renewal.
“You have stood with the people in times of hardship, provided comfort in grief, and consistently raised your voice against injustice and corruption,” he said.
Tinubu stressed that genuine reconciliation and national cohesion depend on clerics continuing to preach peace, denounce violence, and discourage divisive tendencies.
He urged faith leaders to keep speaking truth to power while also offering constructive solutions.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and social unrest, the President said government policies were targeting root causes such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
He appealed to clerics to complement these efforts by nurturing values of honesty, hard work, and compassion within their communities.
On the economy, Tinubu explained that reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy, exchange rate unification, and plugging financial leakages were tough but necessary steps to stabilise the system and lay the foundation for long-term growth.
“These policies demand short-term sacrifices, but they are essential to reposition Nigeria for prosperity,” he said.
He noted that reforms in agriculture, energy, and infrastructure would stimulate job creation and expand opportunities for the youth.
The President assured that no Nigerian — rural or urban, majority or minority, would be left behind, pledging inclusive governance and deeper collaboration with faith-based organisations in education, healthcare, social welfare, and skills development.
He further urged the Church to partner with government in civic education, environmental protection, and youth empowerment, emphasising that Nigeria’s future depends on raising generations that uphold integrity, justice, and compassion.
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