President Bola Tinubu said Saturday that his administration will continue partnering with religious leaders to foster interfaith dialogue and reduce sectarian tensions, describing the effort as key to addressing the nation’s security challenges.
Tinubu made the remarks while receiving Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, the Vatican’s secretary for relations with states and international organizations, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Archbishop Gallagher was escorted by Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Ojukwu.
“Interfaith dialogue is the only path to addressing the country’s security challenges,” Tinubu said, recounting a long, cordial relationship with the Catholic Church that dates to his tenure as governor of Lagos.
He praised the church’s role in education, health care and humanitarian work and said reopening mission schools—seized under past military regimes—was a priority when he served as governor.
President Tinubu also expressed gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for his global advocacy for peace and noted that he led Nigeria’s delegation to the pope’s inauguration.
“We need his spiritual engagement, as millions around the world look up to him,” the president said, adding that he looked forward to hosting the pontiff in Nigeria.
The President said his administration is increasing resources for security operations and intensifying surveillance in previously ungoverned areas, while also investing in youth programs to reduce vulnerability to radicalization.
“The military has made significant progress in recent times and remains committed to sustaining these achievements,” he said, warning that a single incident could erode gains.
Archbishop Gallagher said he was in Nigeria to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and described the country as “the heart of Africa,” praising its vibrant Catholic community.
He thanked Tinubu for attending the pope’s inauguration and commended Veritas University in Abuja for its progress.
The Vatican official praised the President’s peace initiatives—including the role of the military—and thanked the Nigerian government for facilitating visas for bishops and responding to the church’s needs.
He said he expects the Nigerian ambassador to the Holy See to arrive in the coming weeks and suggested additional visits from Vatican officials.
Accompanying Archbishop Gallagher were Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria Archbishop Michael F. Crotty and officials from the Vatican’s Secretariat of State.
