Religious Tolerance Remains Central To Nigeria’s Peace, Unity — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has asked Nigerians to embrace unity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence as essential pillars for national security, stability and development.

The President made the call yesterday at the 4th International Conference of the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue in Kano.

He was represented at the event by the minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

Tinubu commended the centre and the Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna, for sustaining interfaith engagement aimed at promoting peace and national cohesion.

“This conference continues to uphold the ideals of our nation’s peace and unity through dialogue. I am honoured by this invitation,” the President said.

He described the conference’s focus on the legacy of the late Sheikh Mahmud Abubakar Gummi as timely and instructive, noting that the renowned Islamic scholar played a crucial role in fostering unity during pivotal moments in Nigeria’s history.

“Sheikh Gummi understood the intersection of faith and politics and worked closely with authorities after independence and the civil war to promote oneness and peaceful coexistence,” he said.

The President further described Sheikh Gummi as a distinguished scholar, reformer and national figure whose influence transcended religious boundaries.

“He was a teacher, a reformer, an advisor, and a prodigious writer.

He mentored generations to believe in the indivisibility of Nigeria, in work and in worship,” he stated.

Addressing current national challenges, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to reject divisive narratives that portray the country as intolerant of religious freedom.

“We must strengthen our resolve for a more united country. Recent attempts to misrepresent Nigeria as a nation that undermines religious freedom must be firmly resisted,” he said.

He stressed that national security is inseparable from unity and mutual respect among citizens, regardless of religious or ethnic differences.

“Our national security is tied to our unity, our togetherness, and our respect for religious diversity. We must forge a united front against those who seek to divide us,” the President said.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, Tinubu said decisive steps are being taken to confront insecurity across the country.

“My administration is working assiduously to protect life and property and to execute the fight against terror with all that is at our disposal,” he said.