No fewer than 10,000 Christians drawn across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory on Monday held a solidarity walk to congratulate President Bola Tinubu for his victory at the tribunal and inclusive government.
Under the aegis of the All Christian Youths in Northern Nigeria (ACYNN), the group applauded the President for including Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Chief of Defense Staff General Christopher Musa, and other Christians in his government.
In a letter co-signed by its national president, Dominic Alancha and four others, the group said President Tinubu has surprised Christians with his appointments, especially after many expressed reservations over the Muslim-Muslim ticket.
The group said it is particularly pleased with the choice of Gen Musa to lead the Armed Forces, being a Christian from Kaduna who understands the impact of the insecurity in the state and other parts.
The Christian youths said this is a testament to Tinubu’s incredible leadership style, centered on ingenuity and inclusiveness.
“We have been profoundly impressed by your administration’s extraordinary efforts in appointing Northern Christians to pivotal political roles. This signifies a significant step towards inclusivity, granting a voice to marginalised, neglected, and often forgotten Christian minorities in Northern Nigeria especially those from the Middle-belt,” the group said.
“At a point, we questioned whether we were recognised as Nigerian citizens with a stake in our beloved country at all. However, your swift and unprecedented appointments, such as naming His Excellency Senator George Akume from Benue State as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), have not only surprised us but also resonated with many well-intentioned Nigerians. This marks a historic moment in Nigeria’s history, and for this, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, Mr. President.
“Your Excellency, you have also appointed General Christopher Gwabin Musa as the 18th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on the 19th of June, an exemplary choice who happens to be a Northern Christian from Zangon Kataf in Kaduna State.
“This appointment is a testament to your leadership style, free from the divisive politics often seen in the Nigerian political arena. You govern with remarkable ingenuity and inclusiveness, uniting all Nigerians as one united nation. We wholeheartedly appreciate your approach, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“As Northern Christians, we initially had reservations about the Muslim-Muslim ticket of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Ibrahim Shettima. Yet, your inclusive governance has impressed us greatly.”
The group, therefore, appealed to all well-meaning Nigerians from every geopolitical zone to join hands with the Tinubu administration in propelling Nigeria towards progress.
It also called on “Christians and Nigerians, in general, to unite in prayer for the well-being of President Tinubu and Vice President Ibrahim Shettima. “