President Tinubu Reaffirms Dedication to National Unity, Assures Northern Christians of Fairness and Inclusivity

President Tinubu Reaffirms Dedication to National Unity, Assures Northern Christians of Fairness and Inclusivity

In a heartfelt address that resonated deeply with attendees, President Bola Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to fostering national unity in Nigeria. Speaking during a poignant visit to Jos, Plateau State, the President extended warm assurances to Christian communities in northern Nigeria, emphasizing his administration's pledge to uphold fairness and inclusivity for all faiths. This timely message comes amid ongoing efforts to bridge religious divides and promote harmony in a nation rich in diversity.

The occasion marked a dual purpose: a courtesy call on Christian leaders at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) and the funeral of Nana Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, the 83-year-old mother of All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. The gathering drew an impressive array of dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, several state governors, the National Security Adviser, federal ministers, and former public officials, underscoring the event's significance in Plateau's political landscape.

President Tinubu, known for his pragmatic approach to governance, opened his remarks by declaring, "I have a mission to unite this country and ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress." He urged the clergy to maintain faith in his leadership, stressing that managing religious sensitivities is a shared duty for the greater good of Nigerians.Addressing concerns often voiced in northern regions, where interfaith tensions have occasionally flared, Tinubu assured Christian leaders of equitable treatment under his watch. "We are dedicated to fairness across all faiths," he stated, reinforcing that no group would be marginalized in the pursuit of progress.

To illustrate his personal stake in religious tolerance, the President shared a touching family anecdote. "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." This revelation not only humanized the leader but also served as a powerful metaphor for the inclusivity he envisions for Nigeria. It echoed his broader vision of a united front against division, drawing parallels to his early political days in Plateau State during the Social Democratic Party era.

Beyond unity, Tinubu outlined concrete actions to bolster security and economic revival—key pillars of his agenda. He vowed to eradicate banditry and resolve farmer-herder conflicts, promising an end to the insecurity plaguing northern communities. On the economic front, he highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing welfare, noting recent gains attributed to policies promoting religious harmony and collective effort.

The late Nana Goshwe received glowing tributes from the President, who described her as a beacon of faith, motherhood, and humanitarian service. Her life, Tinubu reflected, exemplified the values of devotion and community upliftment that he seeks to emulate in national leadership.

As Nigeria navigates economic challenges and social complexities, Tinubu's words offer a beacon of hope. By prioritizing inclusivity, his administration signals a deliberate shift toward a more cohesive society. For Christian communities in the north—and indeed all Nigerians—this reaffirmation is more than rhetoric; it's a call to collaborative healing. With progress already underway, the path to a truly united Nigeria appears brighter, inviting every citizen to play their part in this noble mission.

News Source; Punchnewspapers, Vanguard news