By Mercy Peter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has underscored the importance of religious tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence as essential foundations for Nigeria’s national security, stability, and sustainable development.
The President disclosed this on Monday at the 4th International Conference of the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue held at Bayero University, Kano.
President Tinubu commended the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue, as well as the Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna, for sustaining platforms that promote dialogue, peace, and national cohesion across religious and cultural lines.
Tinubu who was represented at the event by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris said: “This conference continues to uphold the ideals of our nation’s peace and unity through dialogue. I am honoured by this invitation.”
He described the conference’s focus on the legacy of the late Sheikh Mahmud Abubakar Gummi as both timely and instructive, noting that the renowned Islamic scholar played a pivotal role in fostering national unity during critical periods in Nigeria’s history.
According to the President, Sheikh Gummi demonstrated a deep understanding of the intersection between faith and governance and worked closely with authorities after independence and the civil war to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
President Tinubu further described Sheikh Gummi as a distinguished scholar, reformer, and national figure whose influence transcended religious boundaries.
“He was a teacher, a reformer, an advisor, and a prodigious writer. He mentored generations to believe in the indivisibility of Nigeria, in work and in worship,” he stated.
the President urged Nigerians to reject narratives that portray the country as intolerant of religious freedom. He stressed the need for collective resolve in defending Nigeria’s values of inclusivity and respect.
“We must strengthen our resolve for a more united country. Recent attempts to misrepresent Nigeria as a nation that undermines religious freedom must be firmly resisted,” he said.
President Tinubu linked national security directly to unity and mutual respect among citizens, warning that division weakens the country’s ability to confront threats.
“Our national security is tied to our unity, our togetherness, and our respect for religious diversity. We must forge a united front against those who seek to divide us,” he added.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and intensifying efforts against criminality and terrorism nationwide.
“My administration is working assiduously to protect life and property and to execute the fight against terror with all that is at our disposal,” the President assured.
President Tinubu disclosed that over 7,000 trained forest guards have been deployed across the country to deny criminals access to forest corridors. He added that steps are also being taken to entrench community policing through state policing, in line with constitutional provisions.
Following the declaration of a national security emergency in November 2025, the President said security operations have been expanded and reinforced in states affected by banditry and terrorism.
“We have optimised intelligence-led operations to disrupt and dismantle terrorist and criminal networks,” he noted.
President Tinubu also spoke on Nigeria’s security cooperation with the United States, explaining that the partnership is strategic and focused on counterterrorism, civilian protection, and capacity building, while fully respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“Our security alliance with the United States is strategic, focused on protecting vulnerable communities, and operationally led by Nigerian troops,” he said.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to uphold shared values and peaceful coexistence. , stressing that unity remains the foundation for lasting peace and national progress.
