President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to transform the nation’s diversity into a powerful force for stability and economic growth. Speaking in Rome on Sunday during a meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Tinubu emphasised that unity across ethnic and religious lines remains critical to Nigeria’s development.
“If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress,” said Tinubu, who is in Rome to attend the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV.
The President, a Muslim, described the moment as historic, noting the significance of leading Nigeria during the inauguration of a new pope. The Catholic bishops were part of the presidential delegation to both honour the late Pope Francis and witness the installation of his successor.
Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Archbishop of Owerri, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for facilitating their Vatican visit. He highlighted the significance of the event as a stepping stone to deeper engagement between the Church and the Nigerian government.
“You are always there for us,” Ugorji told the President. “Now that you have come to the Vatican, whenever we have our conference in Nigeria, we will also invite you.”
Also present at the meeting were Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto.
The President’s remarks and diplomatic engagement with the Catholic leadership mark a continued effort to promote interfaith cooperation and national cohesion.
