The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with faith-based organisations as part of efforts to enhance national security, promote peaceful coexistence and drive sustainable development.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, gave the assurance on Tuesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria led by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah during a courtesy visit to his office.
Tunji-Ojo said the administration remained committed to nation-building through inclusive governance, strategic reforms and improved internal security, noting that Nigeria had made significant progress over the past four decades.
He stressed that religious institutions play a vital role in promoting peace, national unity and social cohesion, adding that government cannot achieve sustainable development without the support of critical stakeholders.
According to the minister, the meeting focused on deepening cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in areas including national security, good governance, social cohesion and initiatives aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Bishop Kukah commended the Federal Government for its responsiveness to issues affecting the Church, particularly the Catholic Church, and praised the Ministry of Interior for maintaining an open-door policy and engaging constructively with religious organisations.
He reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to partnering with the Federal Government in promoting national security, supporting sound public policies and advancing peace, justice, unity and national development.
The minister concluded by reiterating the Federal Government’s readiness to sustain meaningful engagement with faith-based organisations and other stakeholders in advancing the country’s development agenda.
