Pastor Tunde Bakare, the serving overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, has expressed his desire for enhanced collaboration between Northern and Southern Nigeria following a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday.

The meeting, which took place at the President's residence in Lagos State, centered on national development and Nigeria's future trajectory, according to Bakare.

Focus on National Progress

Speaking to journalists after the private discussion, Bakare emphasized that his concerns transcend mere reservations about governance. "It's not about just reservations. It's about how the country will go well," he stated.

The cleric shared his personal vision for Nigeria, saying, "My personal vision is to see a nation that works in my lifetime, and those things I've discussed with Mr President, they're not hidden things."

While maintaining discretion about the specifics of their conversation, Bakare noted, "When you discuss with the person in charge, you leave it with him to do whatsoever he wills with what you have suggested. So I've had a private conversation with Mr President and I'm glad that he received me well and I trust that God will help our nation."

Vision for North-South Collaboration

Bakare articulated his vision for a more united Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the country's northern and southern regions. "I'd like to see Nigerians being their brother's keeper. I like to see good collaboration between the best of the north and the best of the south to steer Nigeria in the right direction. I'd like to see predictable progress in our nation," he remarked.

The pastor also highlighted the urgent need to address poverty in the country, stating, "We have danced around some subjects for too long a time; it's time to take concrete action to ensure that the masses of our country do not live in abject poverty, that's all."

This meeting comes amid ongoing discussions about national unity and economic challenges facing Nigeria. Bakare, who has previously been vocal about governance issues, appears to be maintaining open channels of communication with the presidency despite past political differences.

The President's office has not released an official statement regarding the meeting or the specific topics discussed.