Tinubu Meets Northern Christian Leaders in Jos, Promises Fairness and Unity at APC Chairman’s Mother’s Burial
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday met with prominent Northern Christian leaders in Jos, Plateau State, shortly after attending the funeral of Madam Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.
The visit, which combined a solemn burial event with a high-level faith dialogue, drew massive attention across the region as Tinubu used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to fairness, unity, and religious tolerance in Nigeria.
Addressing top clergy and delegates of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), the President dismissed claims of religious persecution against Christians in the country, describing them as “unfounded and politically motivated.”
“In my family, we have both faiths. My wife is a Christian and a pastor, and I have never forced her to change her religion. Nigeria’s strength lies in our diversity, and I am committed to protecting every faith equally,” Tinubu said.
The President assured that his administration would continue to pursue policies that promote security, economic inclusion, and equal opportunity for all Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
Tinubu also restated his determination to end banditry, terrorism, and farmers–herders conflicts that have devastated communities across the North, pledging that the government would “restore peace and rebuild trust” in every troubled region.
Earlier at the funeral, the President paid tribute to the late Madam Goshwe, describing her as a “mother of faith and virtue” whose son, the APC National Chairman, has continued her legacy of service and discipline.
Leaders of the Northern Christian community, including COCIN President Rev. Amos Mohzo, thanked Tinubu for his inclusive leadership and the appointment of Christians into key national positions such as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, and APC National Chairman, Prof. Yilwatda. They, however, urged the President to intensify efforts to address the plight of displaced Christians in Plateau, Benue, Borno, and Adamawa States.
Tinubu’s visit to Jos was described by political observers as a strategic outreach aimed at strengthening faith relations and dispelling tension over alleged religious bias in governance.
He departed for Lagos later in the day after a closed-door session with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other top government officials.
Why It Matters
The meeting marks a major step in rebuilding trust between the Tinubu administration and Northern Christian communities, many of whom have long felt sidelined by national politics. By directly engaging faith leaders in Jos—a symbolic heart of Nigeria’s religious diversity—Tinubu sought to project unity, counter foreign claims of Christian persecution, and reinforce his government’s commitment to inclusive governance.
