Abuja: President Bola Tinubu on Saturday emphasized that interfaith dialogue remains the only sustainable solution for tackling Nigeria’s security challenges and bolstering national unity. The president reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering peace, harmony, and tolerance among Nigeria’s religious communities while receiving Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the meeting was also attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Ojukwu. In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu affirmed his administration’s dedication to partnering with religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence across the country. He urged religious leaders to persist in their efforts to preach peace and tolerance.
President Tinubu highlighted his longstanding relationship with the Catholic Church, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Lagos
State. He acknowledged the Church’s contributions to education, healthcare, and humanitarian services in Nigeria and noted his decision to return mission schools to religious organizations after he assumed office as governor.
Furthermore, Tinubu appreciated Pope Leo XIV’s global efforts to promote peace and unity and expressed optimism about a potential visit from the Pontiff to Nigeria in the future. He also assured his guest that his administration remains committed to protecting freedom of worship in the country.
Highlighting progress in the fight against insecurity, Tinubu mentioned intensified military operations and improved surveillance, as well as investments in youth development to prevent radicalization and terrorist recruitment.
Archbishop Gallagher, who was in Nigeria to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Holy See, described Nigeria as strategic to the Catholic Church. He conveyed Pope Leo XIV’s appreciation to Tinubu for attending his inauguration
and praised the President’s commitment to peace and security.
Gallagher also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for facilitating visas for Catholic bishops and meeting the Church’s needs, expressing confidence that relations between Nigeria and the Holy See would continue to strengthen through sustained high-level engagements. Gallagher was accompanied by Archbishop Michael Crotty, Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Monsignor Suman Anthony, and Monsignor Patarne Koyassambia-Kozondo.