**Says Tinubu administration remains committed to justice, inclusion, religious freedom

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained engagement with religious leaders and other stakeholders in addressing key national concerns, including security, social welfare, education, youth empowerment and economic development.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, gave the assurance while addressing the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) held in Abuja.

Akume said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognises the concerns of Christians and other Nigerians over security, equal opportunities, freedom of worship, access to justice and participation in national development, stressing that government remains committed to protecting fundamental rights and promoting social inclusion.

“We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders in addressing concerns relating to security, social welfare, education, youth development and economic empowerment,” the SGF stated.

He assured the Christian community of the Federal Government’s determination to provide an enabling environment for it to continue contributing meaningfully to national development, noting that churches have historically played pivotal roles in education, healthcare, humanitarian services and community development.

Describing CAN as a respected moral voice in the country, Akume said the association had consistently championed justice, peace, equity, good governance and national unity.

According to him, the NEC meeting, as CAN’s highest decision-making body, provides an important platform for reflection, strategic engagement and collective action on issues affecting the Church and the nation.

The SGF acknowledged that Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges arising from global economic uncertainties, security threats, climate-related pressures, inflation, youth unemployment and social tensions.

Despite these challenges, he said the country has remained resilient, while the Tinubu administration continues to pursue policies aimed at building a more inclusive, prosperous and secure nation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Akume highlighted ongoing reforms designed to stabilise the economy, improve infrastructure, strengthen food security, create jobs, expand social investment programmes, attract investments and enhance national security.

While admitting that some of the reforms have imposed short-term hardships on citizens, he maintained that the government remains focused on ensuring that the long-term gains translate into improved living standards and sustainable economic opportunities for Nigerians.

The SGF also underscored the role of the Church in nation-building, describing the Christian faith as a powerful force for moral renewal, social justice and community development.

He commended churches across the country for complementing government efforts through the operation of schools, hospitals, orphanages, rehabilitation centres and other charitable institutions that promote human development and social welfare.

Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to constructive engagement with CAN and other faith-based organisations, Akume said collaboration was essential in addressing issues of national cohesion, security, religious freedom, poverty alleviation, education and social justice.

“Sustainable national development requires the collective efforts of government, religious institutions, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the private sector and citizens,” he said.

The SGF further called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence, stressing that the country’s ethnic, cultural and religious diversity should be harnessed as a source of strength rather than division.

He commended Christian and Muslim leaders for promoting dialogue and mutual understanding, urging them to remain steadfast as ambassadors of peace, reconciliation and national unity.

Akume also appealed to the Church to continue praying for Nigeria and its leaders, while encouraging citizens to uphold the values of integrity, patriotism, compassion, accountability and responsible citizenship.

He expressed appreciation to the leadership of CAN for the invitation to participate in the meeting and expressed optimism that its deliberations would yield practical recommendations capable of strengthening national unity, promoting peace and advancing the welfare of Christians and other Nigerians.