Tinubu to Catholic Bishops: Let’s turn Nigeria’s diversity into strength

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to harness the country’s rich diversity as a force for unity, stability, and national development.

The President made this call during a meeting with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria in Rome on Sunday, following his attendance at the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Square.

Tinubu said Nigeria’s pluralism should be embraced as an advantage rather than a challenge, stressing that diversity, when well-managed, can be a catalyst for prosperity.

“If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress,” he stated, emphasizing the need for inclusive leadership and collective responsibility.

Describing his presence in Rome for the papal inauguration as “historic,” Tinubu said it reflects Nigeria’s strong commitment to interfaith cooperation.

The President, a Muslim, reiterated his administration’s dedication to promoting peaceful coexistence among religious and ethnic groups across the country.

He was joined at the meeting by a delegation of Catholic bishops led by Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).