President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to harness the country’s diversity for prosperity rather than adversity. He made the remarks in Rome, Italy, during a meeting with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference on the sidelines of the inauguration mass of Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
Tinubu, who attended the inauguration alongside 30 other heads of state and government, described diversity as a strength that, if properly utilized, can ensure stability and progress for Nigeria.
According to Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said: “If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress.”
Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, appreciated Tinubu for enabling their attendance at the papal events and invited him to future church conferences in Nigeria.
Other clerics present included Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto.
In a separate meeting with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to interfaith dialogue, tolerance, and cooperation. He shared on his official X handle, “Our dialogue was marked by a spirit of fraternity and a shared vision for the future. We discussed common values such as peace, mutual respect, and global solidarity.”
The President emphasized Nigeria’s appreciation for the Vatican’s goodwill and commitment to its Catholic faithful. He added that Nigeria remains open to friendship and is dedicated to building bridges of understanding globally.
Tinubu’s visit also included participation in the mass and was seen as a significant diplomatic gesture. The Nigerian delegation included Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Ademola Oshodi, and other top aides and clerics.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the gesture as a symbolic show of solidarity with Christians in Nigeria, reflecting the President’s commitment to national and global peace.
Onanuga highlighted Tinubu’s religious inclusiveness, noting that 62% of his cabinet are Christians. Oshodi said the visit helps correct misconceptions about religious intolerance in Nigeria and affirms religious freedom in the country.
The Vatican’s invitation to President Tinubu is viewed as recognition of Nigeria’s evolving interfaith diplomacy and leadership in peacebuilding across Africa.
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