Tinubu Urges Unity in Diversity for Nigeria’s Stability and Progress
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to harness their diversity as a source of strength for the nation’s stability and rapid development.
Speaking in Rome while receiving members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among leaders and citizens.
“If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress,” said the President, a Muslim, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s multicultural fabric.
He described the occasion as historic, as it marked his presidency during the inauguration of a new Pope in Rome. The Catholic Bishops were part of the Nigerian delegation attending the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday.
Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for facilitating their visits to the Vatican for both the funeral of Pope Francis and the inauguration of his successor. He noted that the gesture symbolized a new phase in the relationship between the presidency and the Catholic Church.
“You are always there for us. Now that you have come to the Vatican, whenever we have our conference in Nigeria, we will also invite you,” Archbishop Ugorji said.
Other prominent clerics in attendance included Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto Diocese.