President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday dismissed allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria, insisting that no faith is under siege in the country.
Speaking in Owerri, Imo State, at the unveiling of a book on 10 years of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government authored by Governor Hope Uzodimma, Tinubu said Nigerians have embraced religious and cultural diversity as a source of unity and strength.
“Our churches, mosques, and traditional shrines stand side by side – not as rivals, but as symbols of the unity that binds us. We must never allow outsiders to define us or sow division,” the President told guests at the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Convention Centre.
The President also inaugurated the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road, the Assumpta Twin Flyover, and the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Convention Centre.
Among those present were APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, former APC chairmen Adams Oshiomhole and Umar Ganduje, several governors including Abia’s Alex Otti, presiding officers of the National Assembly, former Senate Presidents Ahmad Lawan and Anyim Pius Anyim, traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, student unions, and market associations.
Tinubu used the occasion to reassure Nigerians that his administration’s reforms are yielding results, declaring that “Nigeria has turned the corner” and that “the worst is over.”
He cited economic indicators, noting that external reserves had risen to $42.03 billion, the highest since 2019, while second-quarter GDP growth stood at 4.23%. He added that inflation had slowed to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years, with trade surplus up by 44% and manufactured exports growing by 173%.
“These numbers speak of a Nigeria that is producing, exporting and competing more than ever before,” Tinubu said, adding that the naira was stabilising as reforms took hold.
The President acknowledged past mistakes but credited the APC with steering Nigeria toward recovery over the past decade. He commended Governor Uzodimma for documenting the party’s journey, describing the book as “a gift of stewardship.”
Tinubu reiterated his commitment to federalism, education, healthcare, and agriculture, stressing that no state is struggling to pay salaries and that new infrastructure projects would outlive the present generation.
Calling for patriotism as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, he urged citizens to stop “talking ill” of the country. “We are proud of our forefathers. Nigeria will not fail. Together, we will win,” he said.
