President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and security, declaring that he will not allow religious bias to influence his administration’s efforts in tackling the country’s security challenges. Speaking during a meeting with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the State House in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized that insecurity affects all Nigerians, regardless of their faith, and stressed the need for collective action to restore stability.
The President’s remarks came amid growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation across the country, with frequent attacks by bandits, insurgents, and criminal groups leaving citizens in fear. In response to concerns raised by the bishops, Tinubu assured them that his government remains committed to finding lasting solutions to insecurity while ensuring that religious or ethnic considerations do not interfere with policy decisions.
“This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God,” Tinubu stated. “But we have to think of our country. This country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry. And I’m here open to you, ready to listen.”
The President’s statement highlights his administration’s open-door policy, a stance he reiterated to the religious leaders as he called for unity and collaboration in addressing national challenges. Tinubu’s assurance of impartiality comes at a time when religious tensions and political divisions continue to shape national discourse, with many Nigerians demanding policies that promote inclusivity and fairness.
Beyond security concerns, the meeting also touched on the economic hardships facing Nigerians. Tinubu acknowledged the struggles many citizens are enduring, particularly in the wake of his administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidies. He admitted that the decision was difficult but insisted that it was necessary to prevent Nigeria’s economy from collapsing.
“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country,” he said.
Despite the economic difficulties caused by the policy shift, Tinubu pointed to positive signs emerging in the economy, highlighting increased competition in the petroleum sector, a rise in agricultural productivity, and growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s business environment.
“There is hope; people are coming in to invest. They are saying good things about Nigeria. I am very proud of that. What seems to be a very difficult beginning is now showing us hope. And we are not at half-time yet. I’m happy to see this period alive and healthy, and I am thankful to all of you for your prayers,” Tinubu told the bishops.
The President’s optimism contrasts with the lived realities of many Nigerians who continue to grapple with rising inflation, unemployment, and worsening living conditions. However, he maintained that his administration’s economic reforms, while painful, would ultimately yield positive results for the nation.
On the issue of security, Tinubu reassured the religious leaders that security agencies are making significant progress in tackling insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminality. He emphasized that these efforts are yielding tangible results and that both Christians and Muslims are benefiting from the improvements being made.
Security analysts and religious leaders have consistently called for greater collaboration between the government and faith-based organizations in addressing insecurity and national disunity. Many have also urged the administration to implement policies that prioritize social welfare and economic stability to reduce the factors driving crime and violence.
As Tinubu continues to push his reform agenda, Nigerians remain hopeful that his promises will translate into real and lasting change. The President’s engagement with the Catholic bishops is part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, as his government seeks to build broad-based support for its policies and initiatives.
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