President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has underscored his administration’s commitment to unity and fairness among Nigeria’s religious communities, declaring he has a mission to unite Nigerians as he met with Christian leaders in Jos, Plateau State. In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), highlighted Tinubu’s assurance of equitable treatment for all religions during his visit to the COCIN Church Headquarters.

Bayo Onanuga noted President Tinubu emphasized progress in his unity drive, telling Christian leaders, “I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress”. Tinubu shared personal testament of religious harmony, saying, “In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion”.

Addressing insecurity, Tinubu affirmed his administration’s determination to tackle terrorism and banditry plaguing Nigeria. “We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” the President declared, linking economic revamp to broader national benefit. Bayo Onanuga conveyed Tinubu urged clergy to have faith in his administration, stressing leaders must manage religious issues inclusively.

Tinubu paid tribute to Nana Lydia Yilwatda, 83-year-old mother of APC Chairman Professor Nantawe Yilwatda, describing her as devoted. “The history behind this church is rooted in faith with deep acceptance in the Lord and tradition,” Tinubu reflected, recalling past Jos visits including SDP-era strategizing with MKO Abiola. APC Chairman Professor Nantawe Yilwatda lauded his mother as hard-working, serving humanity despite 47 years on medication.

Reverend Dr Amos Mohzo, COCIN President, thanked Tinubu for supporting Northern Christians via key appointments like Senator George Akume as SGF and Professor Nantawe Yilwatda as APC head. Mohzo sought Tinubu’s aid for Benue conflict victims and displaced Christians from Borno/Adamawa now in Cameroun, assuring unflinching support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Prominent attendees included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governors Forum Chairman AbdulRazaq Abdulrahman, NSA Nuhu Ribadu and former governors.

Bayo Onanuga indicated the funeral drew APC elites, federal officials like Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and former House Speaker Yakubu Dogara, underscoring event significance. Tinubu remains steadfast in addressing Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges, Bayo Onanuga noted.