President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to religious freedom and tolerance, stressing that the country remains a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of liberty for all faiths.
In a statement on Saturday, the President said his administration has, since 2023, maintained open and active engagement with both Christian and Muslim leaders while addressing security challenges affecting citizens across regions and religious lines.
He dismissed recent characterisations of Nigeria as a country intolerant of religion, describing such portrayals as inaccurate and inconsistent with the nation’s reality and values.
“The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians,” Tinubu said.
According to him, religious freedom and tolerance remain central to Nigeria’s collective identity and will always be upheld by his administration. He reiterated that Nigeria “opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it.”
President Tinubu further emphasised that the country’s Constitution guarantees protection for citizens of all faiths and pledged continued partnership with the United States government and the international community to deepen cooperation on the protection of religious communities.
He assured that his government would continue to promote mutual understanding, unity, and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse religious groups.
