“This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike” – Tinubu tells Catholic Bishops, assures Nigerians of unity, economic recovery

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling Nigeria’s security challenges without religious bias, emphasizing that both Christians and Muslims suffer equally from insecurity.

Speaking on Friday while receiving the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the State House in Abuja, Tinubu assured religious leaders of his openness to dialogue and collaboration.

“This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church,” Tinubu stated. He stressed the need to prioritize national unity and progress over religious divisions, adding, “We have to think of our country; this country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry. And I’m here open to you, ready to listen… I will not shut my door.”

Amid Nigeria’s economic struggles, Tinubu defended his fuel subsidy removal policy, insisting that while painful, it was necessary to prevent national financial collapse.

“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,” he explained.

The President expressed optimism about economic recovery, citing increased foreign investments, improved agricultural yields, and lower commodity prices. “There is hope; people are coming in to invest… What seemed to be a very difficult beginning is now showing us hope,” he said.

Tinubu reassured Nigerians that security agencies are making progress in tackling insecurity, urging continued patience and support for his administration.