President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to leverage their diverse backgrounds to foster stability and accelerate development within the nation. This appeal emphasizes the potential strength found in Nigeria’s multicultural society.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Tinubu addressed members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria during a meeting in Rome on Sunday. This interaction occurred during a significant religious event.
The Catholic bishops were included in Tinubu’s delegation to attend the inauguration mass of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday. Their presence highlights the intersection of political and religious leadership.
“If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress,” Tinubu stated. This quote encapsulates his message about the positive potential of Nigeria’s diversity.
The president also called upon leaders at all levels of governance to dedicate themselves to improving the lives of their fellow citizens. This appeal underscores the importance of public service and leadership responsibility.
Tinubu remarked that it is a historically significant moment to serve as the president of Nigeria during the inauguration of a new pope in Rome. This observation highlights the unique timing of his presidency.
Lucius Ugorji, the archbishop of Owerri and president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, expressed gratitude to Tinubu for facilitating their visits to the Vatican. These visits included attending the burial of the late Pope Francis and witnessing the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV.
He indicated that this development marks the beginning of a more strengthened relationship between the president and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference. This suggests an enhanced level of cooperation and dialogue.
“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, and we look forward to interfacing with you just as you were able to do with the Holy Father,” he said. This quote reflects a desire for continued engagement and collaboration.
Ignatius Kaigama, the archbishop of Abuja; Alfred Martins, the archbishop of Lagos; and Mathew Hassan Kukah, the Catholic bishop of Sokoto Diocese, were among those who attended the meeting with the president. This detail highlights the presence of key religious figures at the discussion.
