Tinubu: 'I look forward to hosting Pope Leo'

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration's dedication to fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting peace, harmony, and tolerance among Nigeria's diverse religious communities. Speaking in Abuja while receiving Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, the Holy See's Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, Tinubu emphasized that interfaith dialogue is crucial for addressing the nation's security challenges. He shared a long-standing cordial relationship with the Catholic Church, particularly recalling his time as governor of Lagos when he prioritized returning mission schools to religious institutions. These schools had been taken over during previous military administrations. The President expressed his appreciation for Pope Leo XIV, recalling his honor in leading Nigeria's delegation to the Pope's inauguration. He acknowledged the Pope's global efforts to promote peace and stressed the need for his spiritual engagement, given his influence on millions worldwide. "I look forward to receiving him in Nigeria," Tinubu stated, assuring that his administration would continue to work on religious harmony and encouraging religious leaders to persist in preaching peace and tolerance. He recognized the significant role of the Catholic Church in expanding education, health, and humanitarian efforts in Nigeria, noting the country's benefit from these contributions. Tinubu also highlighted the government's commitment to guaranteeing freedom of worship, pointing to his wife's role as a pastor in an evangelical church as evidence against religious connotations in national controversies. Furthermore, President Tinubu assured Archbishop Gallagher that the Nigerian military has made substantial progress in security operations and is committed to sustaining these gains through increased resource allocation and intensified surveillance, especially in previously ungoverned areas. The government is also investing in youth programs to prevent radicalization and exploitation by terrorists.

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I appreciate the Pope. It was an honour for me to lead the Nigerian delegation to his inauguration as Pope Leo XIV. It was a moment of history. I see his efforts all over the world to promote World Peace. We need his spiritual engagement, as millions around the world look up to him. I look forward to receiving him in Nigeria.