Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the Tinubu administration’s dedication to upholding religious freedom and fostering interfaith unity. Speaking at the inauguration of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) Board at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s spiritual foundation and the critical role of faith in national stability.
Highlighting the importance of religious diversity, VP Shettima vowed that the Tinubu-led government would ensure no discrimination based on faith. “We must provide a haven for members of each faith and uphold the rights and freedoms in our constitution,” he stated, underscoring the NCPC’s role in facilitating Christian pilgrimages, a “sacred tradition” that must be prioritized.
The Vice President urged the new NCPC board members to promote interfaith harmony through compassion, justice, and mutual respect. “We can only emerge stronger and more resilient as a nation through dialogue, empathy, and reconciliation,” he said, recalling President Tinubu’s promise of non-discrimination and commitment to interfaith harmony.
Earlier, NCPC Chairman Rev. (Monsignor) Cletus Gotan expressed gratitude for the government’s support in sponsoring pilgrimages that enhance the spiritual upliftment of citizens. He pledged that the new board would work to improve pilgrimage services, fostering greater understanding and unity. “We pray that the exercise will help us appreciate how to live with each other as children of the same father,” Gotan said, noting the board’s diverse and distinguished composition.