“Speak Truth to Power,” Tinubu Urges Faith Leaders

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on faith leaders in Nigeria to speak truth to power and offer constructive solutions that will help build a nation rooted in integrity, hard work, and compassion.

Speaking on Sunday at the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, the President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, appealed for sustained religious harmony as a pathway to peace and national development. He urged faith leaders to continue promoting reconciliation in conflict-affected communities, while denouncing violence and fostering trust among citizens.

Tinubu commended the Catholic Church for its longstanding contributions in education, healthcare, and social welfare, particularly in underserved communities, and for offering comfort and moral guidance in times of hardship, injustice, and corruption. He encouraged the bishops to remain firm in providing moral direction, not only to government but to every sector of society, while also presenting practical solutions that strengthen the moral fabric of the nation.

On the state of the economy, Tinubu explained that his administration had embarked on difficult but necessary reforms in agriculture, energy, and infrastructure to stabilize the country, create jobs, and expand opportunities for young people. While acknowledging that the benefits may not be immediate, he assured that the long-term impact of these policies would be transformative and secure a brighter future for Nigerians.

The President stressed that governance must go beyond economic growth to also uphold justice, fairness, accountability, and inclusiveness, ensuring that no one is left behind, whether rich or poor, rural or urban, majority or minority. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to strengthen partnerships with faith-based organizations in education, healthcare, social welfare, and skills development, noting that such collaborations are critical in tackling poverty and inequality.

Tinubu also urged the Church to support government efforts in civic education, environmental protection, and youth empowerment, saying the task of nation-building requires preparing future generations with not only knowledge but also the moral values that sustain unity and progress.