President Bola Tinubu has called on religious leaders across the country to continue promoting interfaith harmony and reconciliation in communities plagued by conflict.
The President made the appeal on Sunday at the opening of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in Ikot Ekpene. He was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Tinubu noted that religious leaders play a vital role in shaping values and building trust among citizens, stressing that faith-based organisations remain an important bridge for peace, unity, and moral renewal in Nigeria.
He commended the Catholic Church for standing as a credible partner in the nation’s journey towards renewal.
“Your investments in education, health, and social welfare, especially in remote and underserved communities, speak louder than words. You have stood with the people in hardship, provided comfort in grief, and raised your voice against injustice and corruption,” Tinubu said.
The President encouraged clerics to continue speaking truth to power, not only to government but also to every sector of society, while offering constructive solutions that could help build a nation defined by integrity, hard work, and compassion.
According to him, reconciliation and cohesion will only thrive if spiritual leaders consistently preach peace and discourage extremism, hatred, and divisive tendencies.
He assured the bishops of his administration’s commitment to addressing insecurity and social unrest by tackling poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
Tinubu further urged religious leaders to complement government efforts by guiding their followers and nurturing communities with values that strengthen unity.
He also commended Catholic Bishops and clerics of other denominations for their consistent promotion of dialogue and tolerance despite Nigeria’s diversity.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CBCN plenary is a major gathering where bishops deliberate on issues of faith, society, and national development. A communiqué is expected at the end of the conference.
