Speaking during Ramadan Iftar with traditional rulers and religious leaders at the State House in Abuja, the President emphasised the important role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.
He urged the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of those in elective positions, stressing that his administration is determined to turn Nigeria’s challenges into prosperity.
He emphasised that no terrorist could defeat the collective will of Nigerians, no matter how hard they would try to prey on innocent citizens, and urged traditional and religious leaders to forge a strong bond with the government to defeat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality in the country.
The President, who acknowledged the birthday wishes and goodwill extended to him on the occasion, reminded the leaders that his birthday on March 29, 2024, coincided with Good Friday.
Different speakers at the dinner expressed gratitude for the opportunity to come together in the spirit of Ramadan to share a meal with the President and renew the bonds of friendship that would unite the nation.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima emphasised the pivotal roles of religious and traditional rulers in promoting peace and unity, urging them to continue to build bridges transcending ethnic and religious divides.
The Vice-President expressed delight that the nation’s economy was on a rebound, noting the strengthening of the naira against the dollar.
On behalf of the Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, assured the President of the unwavering support of traditional rulers, and commended the government’s efforts to address the hike in food prices and the security challenges.
While making remarks on behalf of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Bamalli, highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, empathy, and unity.
On the security situation in the country, the Emir of Zazzau, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, NSCIA, expressed optimism that the country would return to peace and stability.
The General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend Samson Fatokun, also noted that the Ramadan dinner with religious and traditional leaders, coincided with Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, observed in commemoration of Jesus Christ’s institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper.
The General Secretary, who delivered the address of CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, commended President Tinubu for fostering a harmonious relationship between the State and the Church.
Bello Wakili