In a powerful address on Tuesday, October 01, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu firmly rejected claims of religious genocide in Nigeria, describing such allegations as baseless and deliberately misleading. Speaking at the unveiling of a book chronicling a decade of governance under the All Progressives Congress (APC), authored by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, the President emphasized Nigeria’s unity and resilience in the face of divisive narratives. The event, held in Owerri, Imo State, was attended by prominent political figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC governors, the Governor of Abia State, and members of the National Assembly leadership. During his visit, President Tinubu also commissioned several transformative infrastructure projects in the state, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to development and inclusivity.
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The President’s remarks addressed a critical issue: the narrative of religious persecution in Nigeria. He unequivocally dismissed these claims, asserting that no faith or community in Nigeria is under siege. “Here, no faith is under siege, no community is excluded,” he declared, underscoring that Nigeria’s strength lies in its rich diversity of cultures, religions, and ethnicities. He cautioned against external forces attempting to define Nigeria’s identity or sow discord among its people, urging citizens to resist such divisive tactics. “We must never allow outsiders to tell us who we are or sow division among us,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the importance of unity as a cornerstone of national progress.
Reflecting on the APC’s decade-long governance since 2015, President Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, confidently stating, “The worst is over.” He acknowledged the challenges faced by the preceding administration under former President Muhammadu Buhari, admitting that mistakes were made. However, he highlighted significant achievements under the APC’s leadership, including stabilizing the nation during turbulent times, combating terrorism, and investing heavily in critical infrastructure. Tinubu also pointed to efforts to instill accountability in governance, which he described as a hallmark of the party’s commitment to transformative leadership. He took a swipe at critics, particularly those associated with the opposition, who he accused of squandering 16 years in power with “broken promises, broken power plants, and broken roads.” This, he argued, stood in stark contrast to the APC’s efforts to rebuild and reposition Nigeria for growth.
Speaking directly to the people of the South-East, President Tinubu delivered a message of inclusion and reassurance. Standing in Imo State, he declared, “The South-East is not on the margins; you are at the centre of our national rebirth.” This statement was a deliberate acknowledgment of the region’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s development and a pledge to ensure its integration into the nation’s progress. Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to true federalism and decentralization, key pillars of his Renewed Hope Agenda. He emphasized that no part of Nigeria would be neglected under his leadership, promising equitable development across all regions.
The event also served as an opportunity for President Tinubu to commission several landmark projects in Imo State, showcasing his administration’s focus on infrastructure development. Among the projects inaugurated were the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road, a critical artery for economic activity in the South-East; the Assumpta Twin Flyover, designed to ease traffic congestion in Owerri; and the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Convention Centre, a modern facility aimed at boosting tourism and economic activities in the state. These projects, Tinubu noted, are part of a broader vision to transform Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape, enhance connectivity, and create opportunities for economic growth.
The unveiling of the book, which documents the APC’s achievements over the past ten years, was a moment of reflection for the party and its leaders. Authored by Governor Hope Uzodimma, who also serves as the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, the book provides a detailed account of the party’s contributions to Nigeria’s development. The presence of key political figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other APC governors, underscored the significance of the event and the party’s unity in celebrating its milestones.
President Tinubu’s visit to Imo State and his remarks at the event signal a renewed push to consolidate his administration’s achievements while addressing lingering challenges. His emphasis on unity, inclusivity, and infrastructure development reflects a broader vision to reposition Nigeria as a prosperous and cohesive nation. By commissioning projects in the South-East and addressing regional concerns, Tinubu demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that all parts of the country benefit from his administration’s policies. His rejection of divisive narratives and focus on federalism further highlight his determination to foster a sense of belonging among Nigeria’s diverse population.
As Nigeria navigates complex socio-political and economic challenges, President Tinubu’s message of hope and unity resonates as a call to action for all Nigerians to work together toward a brighter future. His administration’s focus on infrastructure, accountability, and equitable development aims to lay a strong foundation for sustainable growth. The projects commissioned in Imo State and the assurances given to the South-East region are tangible steps toward realizing the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to uplift all Nigerians, regardless of region or background. With these efforts, Tinubu is positioning his administration as one that prioritizes progress, inclusivity, and national unity, even as it confronts the challenges inherited from previous administrations.
