‘Presidential access is for dialogue, not public disputes’ — NNCYA tells Christian leaders

The Northern Nigeria Christian Youth Association (NNCYA) has urged Christian leaders to avoid making public comments that could heighten political tensions after private meetings with President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement signed by the association’s National Secretary, Bason Sunday, and National Publicity Secretary, Pastor Ruth Wada, on Monday, the group said discussions with the President should promote peace, national unity and meaningful dialogue rather than create controversy.

The association was reacting to comments that followed the recent meeting between President Tinubu and members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).

While expressing respect for Christian leaders, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the group said public statements after such meetings should be made with caution and with the country’s stability in mind.

According to the statement, access to the President is “a sacred trust” meant for dialogue, counsel and intercession rather than public disputes.

The group said, “As youths living daily with the realities in the 19 Northern states, we believe that when spiritual fathers engage the nation’s leader, the words that follow should strengthen both the Church and the country, not create unnecessary tension.”

It added, “When a father sits with the President, receives direct responses to concerns and immediately goes to the media with selective personal commentary, it does not promote peace but risks overheating the polity.”

The association also warned against portraying President Tinubu as unconcerned about Nigeria’s security and economic challenges. It argued that, as Commander-in-Chief, the President has access to intelligence and security information not available to the public.

It urged Nigerians not to draw conclusions without understanding the government’s ongoing efforts to address insecurity and other national challenges.

The group further said that no single person or organisation has exclusive authority over the nation’s conscience, noting that the government also receives information from communities, traditional rulers, the media and security agencies.

The NNCYA called on Christian leaders across denominations to continue promoting unity and peace, while encouraging believers to pray for those in positions of authority.

The association reaffirmed its support for efforts aimed at improving security, rebuilding the economy and promoting national healing.

It also appealed to Christian youths across the country to remain calm, prayerful and reject attempts to use the church as a platform for political division.

It prayed for wisdom for Nigeria’s leaders and urged citizens to work together towards peace, unity and national development.

‘Presidential access is for dialogue, not public disputes’ — NNCYA tells Christian leaders