President Bola Tinubu has reiterated the need for peace and religious tolerance in Nigeria, declaring that “hate is never an option” for Nigerians. The President made this known on Saturday, October 4, during the funeral ceremony of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, held in Jos, Plateau State.
Speaking to mourners and members of the clergy, President Tinubu urged religious leaders to continue championing peace and national unity, emphasizing that Nigeria’s diversity must be seen as a strength.
“I was born into Islam and have remained a Muslim, while my wife is a pastor. She prays for me, and there has never been any conflict between us. I have never tried to persuade her to convert,” Tinubu stated.
“We must love one another. Nobody determines what God has ordained. We are all praying to the same God. We are answerable to Him.”
A Call to Unite Nigeria
Earlier in the day, the President visited the COCIN Church Headquarters in Jos, where he met with Christian leaders. There, he reaffirmed his mission to unite Nigeria and ensure religious equity across the country.
“I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress,” Tinubu said, according to a statement by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga.
Citing his own family as an example of interfaith harmony, Tinubu again emphasized that his marriage to a Christian pastor shows that peaceful coexistence is possible — and necessary — for Nigeria’s development.
On Security and Economic Revamp
President Tinubu also assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to combating insecurity, with special attention to banditry, terrorism, and farmers-herders clashes in the northern region.
“We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” he said.
He added that ongoing economic reforms are geared toward long-term benefits for all Nigerians, promising better days ahead despite current challenges.
Honouring a Life of Resilience: Tribute to Late Nana Lydia Yilwatda
Describing the late Nana Lydia Yilwatda as a “devoted mother and humanitarian,” the President paid tribute to her enduring legacy. He also recalled his earlier political journeys to Jos during the Social Democratic Party (SDP) era, noting his longstanding ties to the region.
“The history behind this church is rooted in faith with deep acceptance in the Lord and tradition. I am grateful to be alive today, and I give glory to God to be here to bid farewell to the mother of the community,” Tinubu said.
APC Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda Pays Tribute
In his tribute, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the bereaved and APC National Chairman, described his mother as a woman of remarkable resilience and compassion.
“She lived on medication for 47 years, yet worked tirelessly to support our family and serve the community. I thank God for her life,” he said.
He also expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for attending the funeral and for his confidence in his leadership of the APC.
