- The president described tax reforms as a way for Nigerians to actively contribute to national development and economic stability.
- He also assured bishops that security agencies are making progress in tackling insecurity across the country.
President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigeria must develop and stand beyond religious bigotry.
Tinubu stressed that Nigeria must progress beyond religious divisions while addressing Catholic bishops during a meeting in Abuja on Friday.
The president welcomed a delegation from the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its president, Lucius Ugorji, at the State House.
Tinubu admitted that Nigerians are facing economic difficulties due to ongoing reforms but insisted that these changes are crucial for national stability and future prosperity.
“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country,” Tinubu said.
“We were spending the investment of the future of our children yet unborn; we were spending their rights. Poverty has no religious basis. It affects all, and we must fight it together.”
The president emphasised that poverty does not discriminate between religions or ethnicities and called for unity among both citizens and leaders to combat it.
He described tax reforms as a chance for Nigerians to contribute to the nation’s growth and overall economic progress.
On insecurity, Tinubu assured the bishops that security agencies are working tirelessly to address the country’s security challenges.
He pointed out that insecurity affects all Nigerians, regardless of faith, and reaffirmed his commitment to religious harmony and national unity.
“This insecurity affects everyone—Christians and Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church,” Tinubu said.
“But we have to think of our country; this country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry.
“We’ve been together for some time. We have an open-door policy. I will not shut my door.”
The president expressed appreciation to religious leaders for their prayers, stating that the country is beginning to witness positive changes and renewed optimism.
He noted that increased competition in the oil sector, better harvests for farmers, and lower commodity prices indicate economic progress, with investors showing interest in Nigeria.
“There is hope; people are coming in to invest. They are saying good things about Nigeria. I am very proud of that,” he said.
“What seems to be a very difficult beginning is now showing us hope. And we are not half-time yet. I’m happy to see this period alive and healthy, and I am thankful to all of you for your prayers.”
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