FG Deepens Partnership with Faith-Based Groups to Boost Security, National Unity

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with faith-based organisations as part of efforts to enhance national security, promote peaceful coexistence and drive sustainable development across the country.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, gave the assurance recently while receiving a delegation from the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, led by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

Tunji-Ojo said the Tinubu administration remained committed to building a more secure and united nation through inclusive governance, institutional reforms and improved internal security.

He noted that Nigeria had recorded significant progress over the years, saying the country had advanced considerably compared to where it stood four decades ago.

According to the minister, achieving lasting peace and sustainable development requires strong partnerships with religious bodies and other critical stakeholders whose influence extends to communities across the country.

He stressed that government alone could not deliver the desired national transformation without the active participation of faith-based organisations in promoting unity, tolerance and social cohesion.

“The government cannot achieve sustainable national development without the active support of critical stakeholders,” he said.

Discussions during the meeting centred on strengthening cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in areas including national security, good governance, social cohesion and initiatives aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.

Earlier, Bishop Kukah commended the Federal Government for its willingness to engage constructively with religious organisations and its responsiveness to issues affecting the Church, particularly the Catholic Church.

He also praised the Ministry of Interior for maintaining an open-door policy that encourages dialogue and collaboration with faith-based groups.

Kukah reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s readiness to work closely with the Federal Government in advancing national security, supporting sound public policies and promoting peace, justice, unity and national development.

In his closing remarks, Tunji-Ojo reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to sustain meaningful engagement with religious organisations and other key stakeholders as part of efforts to advance the nation’s development agenda.