Tinubu pledges fairness to Northern Christians, pays tribute to APC Chairman’s late Mother

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting fairness among all religions in Nigeria, assuring Christian communities in the North of equal treatment and inclusion.

Speaking on Saturday during a meeting with Christian leaders at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos, Plateau State, Tinubu said his mission is to unite Nigerians and build a prosperous nation.

“I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress,” the President stated.

He paid tribute to the late Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who died at the age of 83, describing her as a devoted mother and humanitarian.

“In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion,” Tinubu said, urging clergymen to have faith in his administration.

He also assured Nigerians that his government is working hard to tackle insecurity, especially terrorism, banditry, and farmers-herders clashes.

“We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them completely,” he said, adding that his administration is revamping the economy to benefit all citizens.

Reflecting on his political journey, Tinubu recalled his past connection to Plateau State, saying, “I have been to Jos before. During the SDP days, we met at Ambassador Yahaya Kwande’s house to decide the fate of MKO Abiola. Today, I thank God for the privilege to return here as President to bid farewell to the mother of the community.”

Professor Nentawe Yilwatda described his late mother as a hardworking woman who lived on medication for 47 years but remained dedicated to her family and humanitarian work.

The COCIN President, Reverend Dr Amos Mohzo, appreciated Tinubu’s inclusive leadership, especially the appointment of Northern Christians like Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and APC National Chairman, Professor Yilwatda.

He also appealed to the President to assist victims of conflict in Benue and help displaced Christian communities in Borno and Adamawa return home safely.

Reverend Mohzo assured Tinubu of the church’s continued support for his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The funeral was attended by top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum AbdulRazaq Abdulrahman, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and several ministers, governors, and former governors.

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