President Bola Tinubu emphasized on Saturday that fostering interfaith dialogue is the most effective approach for resolving security concerns and fostering national cohesion in Nigeria. During a meeting at his Abuja residence with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, the President reaffirmed his government’s dedication to maintaining religious tolerance.
The meeting, facilitated by Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Bianca Ojukwu and confirmed by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, highlighted Tinubu’s ongoing collaboration with religious leaders. The President expressed gratitude for the Catholic Church’s significant impact on local healthcare, education, and humanitarian initiatives. He noted that his previous decision as governor to restore mission schools to their original owners was driven by this recognition of the Church’s social value.
Tinubu highlighted his administration’s focus on securing freedom of worship, citing his personal family background as a point of reference. He also detailed the government’s dual approach to national security: conducting targeted military operations while investing in youth development to mitigate the risk of extremist recruitment.
Archbishop Gallagher, visiting to mark fifty years of formal diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the Holy See, characterized Nigeria as a vital partner for the Vatican. He praised the current administration’s security strategies and efforts to support the Catholic community, expressing optimism that the bilateral relationship between the Vatican and Nigeria will continue to thrive.
