President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says sustained interfaith dialogue is an effective way to tackle insecurity in Nigeria and strengthen peaceful coexistence among the country’s religious communities. Speaking in Abuja on Saturday, Tinubu made the remarks while receiving Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations of the Holy See, at Tinubu’s residence. Multiple outlets report that Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting peace, harmony, and tolerance among Christian and Muslim leaders.
In addition to urging religious leaders to continue preaching peace, Tinubu also linked the dialogue agenda to broader security and prevention efforts. He said the military is making progress against criminal and other elements and that the government is committing additional resources to improve surveillance and security operations, especially in areas described as previously ungoverned. He also referenced investments in youth development programmes aimed at reducing young people’s vulnerability to recruitment by terrorist and criminal groups.
The meeting is described as part of ongoing engagement between Nigeria and the Holy See, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations.