President Bola Tinubu has urged religious leaders to keep promoting interfaith harmony and reconciliation in communities divided by conflict.

Mr Tinubu made the appeal at the opening of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria on Sunday in Ikot Ekpene.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Mr Tinubu said religious leaders play a vital role in shaping values and building trust among citizens.

Mr Tinubu stressed that religious organisations remain an important bridge for peace, unity, and moral renewal in the country.

He said the Catholic Church as a credible partner in Nigeria’s journey towards national renewal.

Mr Tinubu added, “Your investments in education, health, and social welfare, especially in remote and underserved communities, speak louder than words. You have stood with the people in hardship, provided comfort in grief, and raised your voice against injustice and corruption.’’

He encouraged religious leaders to continue speaking truth to power, not only to the government but to all sectors of society.

He also urged them to offer constructive solutions that could help build a nation where integrity, hard work, and compassion define both public and private life.

Mr Tinubu emphasised that reconciliation and cohesion would only thrive if spiritual leaders preach peace while discouraging extremism, hatred, and divisive tendencies.

He assured the gathering of his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and social unrest by addressing poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

He called on religious leaders to complement government efforts by guiding their followers and nurturing communities with values of honesty, hard work, and compassion.

 Mr Tinubu commended Catholic Bishops and clerics of other denominations for consistently promoting dialogue and tolerance despite Nigeria’s diversity.

 The CBCN plenary is a major gathering where bishops deliberate on issues of faith, society, and national development.

 A communiqué is expected at the end of the conference.

(NAN)