President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious tolerance and national unity during a heartfelt visit to the Headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos, Plateau State.

 

Speaking at a meeting with Christian leaders, the President assured communities in Northern Nigeria that his government would ensure fairness and equity among all religious groups in the country.

 

“I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress,” Tinubu declared.

 

The visit came as part of his condolence trip to Plateau State following the death of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, the mother of APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, who passed away at the age of 83. While paying tribute during the funeral prayers, the President described the late matriarch as “a devoted mother” and a pillar of her community.

 

Reflecting on his personal experience with religious diversity, Tinubu said:

“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 urged the clergy and Christian communities to have faith in his administration, emphasizing the role of leadership in managing religious differences for national harmony.

“As leaders, we have the responsibility to manage religious issues for the benefit of all,” he said.

President Tinubu also used the occasion to address Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, particularly in the North. He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to eliminate banditry, terrorism, and the persistent farmers-herders clashes that have plagued the region.

 

“We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” he vowed.

 

On the economy, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration is taking bold steps to revamp and stabilize the economy for the benefit of all. While acknowledging the difficulties many citizens are facing, he reiterated his belief that the country is on the path to recovery.

During his remarks, President Tinubu reflected on his long-standing connection with Jos and its people, sharing a nostalgic moment from the era of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

 

“The history behind this church is rooted in faith with deep acceptance in the Lord and tradition. When we were coming here, Governor Caleb Mutfwang showed me one of the bungalows—the house of Ambassador Yahaya Kwande. During the SDP days, we met there to decide the fate of MKO Abiola.”

 

“Today, I am grateful that I am alive and—to God be the glory—President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to come here to bid farewell to the mother of the community,” he concluded.

 

President Tinubu’s visit is being seen as part of his broader effort to strengthen national unity and engage religious leaders across regions to foster peace and cooperation in Nigeria’s diverse society.