Nigeria will stay united despite challenges, says Oluremi Tinubu

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Sunday said that Nigeria would remain united despite its challenges, insisting that the country “will not disintegrate.”

She stated this at the Thanksgiving service for the investiture of Most Rev. Sunday Onuoha as Archbishop on Special Duties at the Methodist Unity Cathedral, Abuja.

She was represented by the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Bishop Stephen Adegbite.

Tinubu said the nation’s stability depended on God and urged Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country, the church and the leadership.

“Nigeria will not disintegrate. Nigeria will remain one indivisible entity. God will be with Nigeria.

“We shall celebrate the coming Christmas in peace and in joy, and it shall be well with Nigeria.

“I wish the Archbishop well in his new role,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, said Nigeria must deepen foreign partnerships to address its worsening security challenges.

He maintained that such cooperation would not compromise the country’s sovereignty.

“The President is a democrat and is open to partnerships that will benefit the country,” he said.

Kalu also emphasised the importance of stakeholders’ engagement in addressing the country’s challenges.

He noted that the Church plays a vital role in promoting peace, unity, and progress.

The lawmaker also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and faith-based organisations in building a nation

“We cannot build a nation without having stakeholders on the table.

“The Church must bring messages of hope, peace, and unity to inspire progress and nation-building,” he said.

Kalu praised Archbishop Onuoha for his commitment to peacebuilding and his ability to bridge the gap between the state and faith communities.

“The man who was decorated as Archbishop today has shown that being in the church does not mean turning your back on the states. He has been the man anchoring such a conversation,” he added.

In a separate interview, Archbishop Onuoha said Nigeria’s security situation had deteriorated to the point where external assistance was necessary.

“We need help. If somebody thinks we don’t need help, that person is in denial.

“Seeking help in security matters is no different from seeking financial assistance or other forms of support,” he said.

He called for unity and condemned the demonisation of individuals and groups, warning that the continued loss of lives must concern everyone regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Onuoha pledged to work with the Church and other stakeholders to promote peace and reconciliation across the country.

NAN