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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday, October 4, 2025 reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious harmony and national unity, assuring Christian communities in northern Nigeria that his government will remain fair, inclusive, and just to all citizens regardless of faith.

The President made the pledge during a meeting with Christian leaders at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, where he also attended the funeral of Mrs. Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.

“I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress,” President Tinubu said, calling on church leaders to trust in his administration’s sincerity and efforts to build a peaceful, secure, and economically vibrant Nigeria.

Highlighting his personal example of religious tolerance, Tinubu noted that he has always respected religious diversity — even within his own family.

“In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian — a pastor, in fact — and I have never forced her to change her religion,” he said.

Focus on Security and Economy

President Tinubu used the occasion to reiterate his government’s resolve to defeat terrorism, banditry, and communal violence, including the recurring farmers-herders clashes that have plagued many communities in the North.

“We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” he assured.

He also pointed to ongoing efforts to revamp the economy for the benefit of all Nigerians, pledging that inclusive growth and shared prosperity remain central to his Renewed Hope Agenda.

Tribute to a Matriarch

Paying tribute to the late Mrs. Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away at 83, Tinubu described her as a “devoted mother and humanitarian” whose life embodied faith and service.

“Today, I am grateful to be alive and to God be the glory to be President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to come here to bid farewell to the mother of the community,” he said.

Professor Yilwatda, the APC chairman, praised his late mother’s resilience, revealing that she lived on medication for 47 years but remained diligent and selfless, providing humanitarian support to many despite her health challenges.

“My mother worked around the clock despite her condition. I thank God for her life,” he said, also expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for his support and promising to uphold the trust placed in him.

Church Leaders Laud Tinubu’s Inclusion Efforts

President of COCIN, Reverend Dr. Amos Mohzo, speaking on behalf of the church leadership, commended President Tinubu for appointing northern Christians to key positions — including Senator George Akume as Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Professor Yilwatda as APC chairman.

Mohzo also lauded the administration’s response to insecurity in Plateau and Benue States, urging further action to support conflict victims and facilitate the safe return of Christian communities displaced by insurgents in Borno and Adamawa states.

“We assure you of our unflinching support as you work to actualise the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Rev. Mohzo said.

Leaders Pay Final Respects

The funeral was attended by a high-powered delegation, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, several APC governors, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and cabinet ministers.

Also present were SGF George Akume, his predecessor Boss Mustapha, former governors, members of the APC National Working Committee, senators, House of Representatives members, and former Speaker Yakubu Dogara, among others.

The gathering, beyond mourning the life of a matriarch, became a platform for renewed dialogue between government and northern Christians — and a reaffirmation of Tinubu’s pledge to lead a united, secure, and inclusive Nigeria.