Tinubu Urges Religious Tolerance As Pillar Of National Security, Peace and Unity
At a time when insecurity and social tensions continue to test Nigeria’s cohesion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed his call for unity and religious tolerance as essential tools for safeguarding peace and national development.
Speaking at the 4th International Conference of the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue at Bayero University, Kano, the President said peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among Nigerians remain critical to strengthening national security.
He was represented at the event by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
President Tinubu commended the Centre and the Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna, for sustaining interfaith dialogue, describing their efforts as vital to promoting national cohesion.
He also paid tribute to the late Sheikh Mahmud Abubakar Gummi, noting that the renowned Islamic scholar played a key role in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence during pivotal moments in Nigeria’s history.
The President warned against narratives portraying Nigeria as intolerant of religious freedom, stressing that such claims must be firmly resisted.
He said national security is inseparable from unity and respect for religious diversity, urging Nigerians to stand together against divisive forces.
On security, President Tinubu disclosed that over 7,000 trained forest guards have been deployed nationwide to deny criminals access to forest corridors, while intelligence-led operations have been expanded following the declaration of a national security emergency in November 2025.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen community and state policing in line with constitutional processes.
The President further noted that Nigeria’s security cooperation with the United States is focused on counterterrorism and civilian protection, while remaining under Nigerian operational leadership.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to uphold shared values and peaceful coexistence, describing unity as the foundation for lasting peace and stability.
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