President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on faith leaders in Nigeria to continue preaching messages of peace and to actively discourage extremism, hatred, and divisive tendencies among the faithful.
He said this would engender genuine reconciliation and national cohesion, particularly in communities torn apart by conflict.
The President made the appeal on Sunday in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, at the opening ceremony 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, President Tinubu said faith-based organisations remained a vital bridge for peace, unity, and moral renewal in the country.
President Tinubu assured the gathering that his administration was committed to addressing the causes of insecurity and social unrest, including poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
He also commended the Catholic Church for its investments in education, health, and social welfare, often in remote and underserved communities, and pledged his willingness to partner with the Church in that direction.
He said, “I encourage you to continue speaking truth to power not only to government but to all sectors of society – while also offering constructive solutions that will help us collectively build a nation where integrity, hard work and compassion are the hallmarks of public and private life.
“Let me re-assure you all that the Federal Government remains open to deepening collaboration with the Catholic Church and other faith-based organisations in key sectors such as education, healthcare, social welfare and skills development. Together, we can tackle poverty, reduce inequality and build stronger communities.”
The President explained that his administration has already taken bold and decisive steps to stabilise the economy in the face of daunting challenges inherited over the years.
He said measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies, efforts to unify the exchange rate, and initiatives aimed at curbing leakages in public finances were designed to restore confidence in the system and create a more sustainable economic foundation.
The President further emphasised that beyond stabilisation, his government is working assiduously to attract both local and foreign investments by creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He highlighted ongoing reforms in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, which are expected to stimulate job creation, boost productivity, and expand opportunities for young people.
Tinubu assured that while the results may not be immediate, these reforms are carefully structured to deliver enduring benefits that will uplift the lives of citizens and secure a brighter economic future for the nation.
