In a significant address during his visit to the Vatican, President Bola Tinubu urged Nigerians to turn their religious and ethnic diversity into a source of national strength and development.
The President made the remarks on Sunday while meeting with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, who accompanied him to Rome for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV.
“If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress,” Tinubu declared, according to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President stressed the importance of inclusive governance, calling on leaders across all government tiers to be intentional in their efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. “Our diversity should be a driver of development, not division. We must harness it to build a stronger, more united country where everyone feels a sense of belonging,” he said.
Tinubu described the inauguration event as “historic” and a “divine privilege,” highlighting the unique timing of his presidency coinciding with the rise of a new Pope.
The Catholic bishops, led by Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, expressed appreciation for the President’s support and for including them in the delegation. Archbishop Ugorji remarked, “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.”
The delegation also included prominent church leaders such as Archbishops Ignatius Kaigama, Alfred Martins, and Bishop Matthew Kukah. The Vatican visit underscored the administration’s commitment to fostering faith-based partnerships to address Nigeria’s socio-economic issues.
