Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relationship with the Vatican.
The affirmation was made at a high-level meeting with the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Crotty, at the Minister’s office in Abuja.
The meeting underscored the importance Nigeria places on its diplomatic and moral ties with the Vatican.
Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted areas of mutual cooperation, including interreligious dialogue, healthcare, education, culture, pilgrimage, tourism, migration and counter-terrorism.
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She said that “Nigeria remains committed to deepening collaboration under the leadership of the Holy Father, whose influence continues to promote global peace and unity.”
The Minister also drew attention to the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and reposition the nation’s economy for sustainable growth.
Addressing concerns about security, Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu dismissed what she described as exaggerated portrayals of Nigeria’s security situation in sections of the international media.
She clarified that incidents of violence in the country are not targeted at any particular religious group, countering narratives of a so-called “Christian genocide.”
According to her, “the government is actively addressing security challenges through coordinated national efforts.”
She further expressed the government’s appreciation for the Vatican’s continued role in promoting global peace and stability, reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to sustain constructive engagement with the Vatican.