Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Harmony, Peace During Meeting With Vatican Envoy

Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Harmony, Peace During Meeting With Vatican Envoy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence across Nigeria, describing dialogue as a vital tool in addressing the country’s security challenges.

The President made the pledge on Saturday while receiving Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, at his residence in Abuja. The envoy was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu.

President Tinubu said his administration remains committed to strengthening religious harmony and acknowledged the longstanding contributions of the Catholic Church to education, healthcare and humanitarian services in Nigeria.

Reflecting on his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, the President noted that his decision to return mission schools to their original religious owners was informed by his belief in the important role faith-based institutions play in national development.

He also expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV, recalling that it was an honour to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the Pope’s inauguration. Tinubu praised the Pontiff’s efforts to promote global peace and expressed hope that the Pope would visit Nigeria in the future.

The President urged religious leaders across the country to continue preaching peace, unity and tolerance, stressing that Nigeria cannot have “an excess” of such values. He added that his administration remains committed to protecting freedom of worship for all citizens.

On security, Tinubu said the Nigerian military has recorded significant progress in combating insecurity, with increased investments in surveillance and operations, particularly in previously ungoverned areas. He added that the government is also investing in youth development to reduce vulnerability to terrorism and radicalisation.

Speaking during the visit, Archbishop Gallagher said he was in Nigeria to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Holy See.

He described Nigeria as a strategic nation for the Catholic Church because of its vibrant Catholic community and conveyed Pope Leo XIV’s appreciation for President Tinubu’s attendance at his inauguration.

The Vatican envoy also commended the President’s efforts to promote peace and security, applauded the government’s support for the Catholic Church, including visa facilitation for bishops, and expressed optimism that relations between Nigeria and the Holy See would continue to deepen. He added that more high-level visits from the Holy See to Nigeria are expected in the future.

Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Harmony, Peace During Meeting With Vatican Envoy