President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that ethical leadership and strong institutions remain the most reliable pathway to peace, justice and sustainable development, particularly in a period marked by global uncertainty and political polarisation.
The President made the remarks on Friday at the Global Council for Political Renewal (GCPR) Conference in Cape Town, South Africa. He was represented at the event by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
Addressing participants, President Tinubu emphasised that ethical political conduct is essential in what he described as a deeply divided and fast-changing world. He noted the growing challenge posed by misinformation and ideological polarisation, stressing the need to balance free expression with responsibility and civility in public discourse.
“We are living in a time of deep political and ideological polarisation, where misinformation spreads faster than truth,” the President said in his address. “The challenge before us is how to protect free expression while restoring responsibility, civility and trust in public discourse.”
Focus on Domestic Reforms
Presenting Nigeria’s position on governance, institutional reform and human rights, the President said his administration is pursuing transparency, accountability and improved institutional performance under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He stated that ongoing reforms are aimed at modernising public institutions, reducing inefficiencies and ensuring that government decisions translate into tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives.
“Public office is a trust,” he said, adding that political renewal requires continuous effort to strengthen democratic institutions and expand civic space.
The President also highlighted social and economic interventions targeted at youth empowerment and vulnerable populations, as well as policies designed to encourage the responsible use of technology and digital platforms.
Global Cooperation and Shared Ideals
President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the principles of the Global Council for Political Renewal, including dialogue, justice and peaceful cooperation among nations. He underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing economic instability and security threats.
“No country is immune to these pressures,” he noted, calling for sustained dialogue and partnership to maintain global stability.
Nigeria, he added, is prepared to contribute to the development of a global roadmap for ethics, justice and development, drawing from its experience as a diverse democracy committed to unity and inclusion.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The conference was attended by several international leaders and officials, including the Prime Minister of Eswatini and President of the GCPR, Russell Mmiso Dlamini; the GCPR Secretary-General, Furio Honsell; and the President of the National Assembly of the Central African Republic, Simplice Sarandji, among others.
The event forms part of ongoing international engagements focused on strengthening governance frameworks and promoting ethical leadership in democratic systems.
