President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly dismissed recent allegations of religious genocide in Nigeria, stating that no faith is under threat and that the country remains a sovereign nation built on “faith and resilience.”
Speaking on Tuesday in Owerri, Imo State, at the public launch of a book authored by Governor Hope Uzodimma to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in power, the President described Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity as a strength, not a weakness.
“Let me say this clearly: Nigeria is a proud, sovereign nation built on the faith and resilience of its people. Here, no faith is under siege, no community is excluded. Our churches, mosques, and traditional shrines stand side by side — not as rivals, but as symbols of the unity that binds us,” Tinubu declared.
His comments come amid growing international discourse and media reports alleging targeted attacks on Christian communities in parts of the country, which some groups have termed “religious genocide.”
While acknowledging Nigeria’s complex security challenges, Tinubu rejected the narrative of religious persecution as politically motivated and externally driven.
“We must never allow outsiders to tell us who we are or sow division among us. We are Nigerians, and we will stand together,” he said.
The President also commissioned several infrastructure projects during his visit, including the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia Road, the Assumpta Cathedral Twin Flyover, and the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Convention Centre, all credited to the Uzodimma administration.
Reflecting on 10 years of APC governance, Tinubu said the party has “changed the course of Nigeria” since taking power in 2015.
“Under President Muhammadu Buhari, our party began stabilising Nigeria. We invested heavily in infrastructure, pushed back terrorists, and instilled accountability in public finance.
Were there challenges? Yes. Were mistakes made? Yes. But no one can deny that the direction of Nigeria changed for good. APC may not be perfect, but we are purposeful.”
He assured southeastern Nigerians that they remain vital to his administration’s development agenda, emphasizing inclusivity through his Renewed Hope initiative.
“I know there were times when this region felt left out. But under Renewed Hope, no part of Nigeria will be abandoned. The South-East is not on the margins; you are at the centre of our national rebirth.”
Governor Hope Uzodimma, who also chairs the Progressive Governors’ Forum, commended the President for implementing bold reforms and supporting state-level development.
“It is through your courage and bold policies that our economy is stabilised today. Most of the projects we undertake in Imo are made possible by the continuous funding we receive from time to time,” Uzodimma said.
He noted that increased federal allocations have enabled states to invest in infrastructure and social services, even amid economic headwinds.
The high-profile event drew attendance from across political and civil society circles, including:
- APC National Chairman, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda
- Former APC Chairmen, Adams Oshiomhole and Abdullahi Ganduje
- Former Senate Presidents, Ahmad Lawan and Anyim Pius Anyim
- Traditional rulers, religious leaders, diplomats, and civic stakeholders
The event marked a key moment in both the APC’s national narrative and the President’s ongoing public outreach as Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence.
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