President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting fairness and unity among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities, pledging to unite the country under a shared vision of peace and prosperity.
Speaking at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, President Tinubu assured Christian leaders from Northern Nigeria that his government remains dedicated to ensuring justice, inclusivity, and equality for all citizens, regardless of faith.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said, “I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress.”
He urged clerics to have faith in his leadership, stressing that religious harmony remains vital to Nigeria’s stability. “As leaders, we have the responsibility to manage religious issues for the benefit of all,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu vows to end insecurity and strengthen economic reforms
President Tinubu reiterated that his administration is determined to end banditry, terrorism, and criminality across the country.
“We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” he declared.
The President also emphasized that ongoing economic reforms are aimed at benefiting all Nigerians, adding that his government is committed to policies that promote shared growth and opportunity.
Tinubu was in Jos to attend the funeral prayers for Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83.
Paying tribute to the late matriarch, Tinubu described her as “a devoted mother and humanitarian.” He recalled his family’s interfaith background, noting, “In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion.”
He said the example reflected his deep belief in mutual respect and coexistence, which he hopes to strengthen across Nigeria.
Church leaders, dignitaries praise Tinubu’s inclusive leadership
President of COCIN, Reverend Dr. Amos Mohzo, commended Tinubu for appointing Northern Christians to key positions such as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.
Mohzo also lauded the administration’s efforts to address insecurity in Plateau and Benue states, appealing for further support to displaced Christian communities. He pledged the Church’s support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his efforts toward peace and national development.
Among dignitaries at the funeral were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, NSA Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and SGF George Akume. Others included former SGF Boss Mustapha, and former governors Tanko Al-Makura, Adamu Mu’azu, Fidelis Tapgun, Yahaya Bello, and Rochas Okorocha.
A former Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Ibrahim Baba Hassan, expressed appreciation to APC supporters and residents of Plateau State for the warm welcome extended to the President.
Hon. Hassan, who chaired the Mobilisation Committee for the event, said the overwhelming turnout reflected Tinubu’s popularity among the people.
“We are indeed thrilled by the peaceful and orderly conduct exhibited by the people of Plateau State during the President’s visit. We are also grateful to Mr. President for according our mother a befitting state burial,” he said.
He further assured that Plateau State would reciprocate the President’s gesture in the 2027 general elections.
The 9am News report notes that President Tinubu’s visit to Jos reinforces his message of national unity, interfaith understanding, and inclusive leadership as part of his broader Renewed Hope Agenda.
