Tinubu Reaffirms Religious Neutrality at Vatican Visit, Presidency Says

The presidency has emphasised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to national unity and religious neutrality, following his attendance at the inaugural Mass marking the beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate on Sunday.

The Nigerian leader’s participation in the Vatican ceremony, accompanied by four prominent Nigerian pastors, is being interpreted as a symbol of his inclusive leadership and dedication to fostering interfaith harmony in Nigeria.

The reaffirmation came through a statement by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, via the President's verified X (formerly Twitter) account.

“President Tinubu leads a multi-religious nation and remains unbiased against any. His creed: though tribe, tongue, and religion may differ, in nationhood we stand—united,” Dare wrote.

Dare emphasized that President Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican reflects his ongoing commitment to respecting all religious communities, a core value in leading Nigeria's diverse population.

According to the presidential aide, Tinubu’s choice to travel with faith leaders from the Christian community speaks volumes about his administration’s approach to inclusiveness.

“President Tinubu is purposed to serve all citizens, irrespective [of background]. His visit to the Vatican alongside four top clergymen resonates clearly in this direction,” Dare added.

This diplomatic and symbolic gesture has been seen by analysts as an effort to strengthen interreligious ties, both locally and internationally, especially at a time when religious and ethnic cohesion remains a top priority for national stability.

President Tinubu has consistently championed the idea of a united Nigeria, emphasizing that peace, progress, and prosperity depend on embracing the country’s ethnic and religious diversity. His Vatican trip adds to a growing list of gestures reinforcing that narrative.