President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has issued a heartfelt plea for collaboration between religious leaders, traditional rulers, and the government to tackle the scourge of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities plaguing the nation.
During a Ramadan Iftar gathering at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized the critical role religious leaders play in shaping public opinion and fostering unity among citizens. He urged these leaders to refrain from denigrating the nation in their sermons and to offer constructive criticism instead.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to turning Nigeria’s challenges into opportunities for prosperity, stressing the collective resilience of the Nigerian people against terrorism. In a poignant moment, he recounted attending the burial of soldiers killed in action and urged citizens to pray for the country and educate its children. He implored religious leaders to refrain from condemning their own nation, emphasizing the need for positive change rather than curses.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of religious and traditional leaders in promoting peace and unity across ethnic and religious divides.
Representatives from traditional rulers and religious bodies expressed support for the government’s efforts and pledged to stand united in addressing the nation’s challenges. The President’s call for unity and collaboration resonated deeply as Nigeria strives for peace and stability in the face of adversity.