President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigeria's size and population are factors in many of the country's problems, but his administration is making an effort in many areas.
The Nigerian leader also stated that youths are Nigeria's hope for a better future, and that his government's priority is to solve their problems.
According to Malam Garba Shehu, the president's spokesman, the Nigerian leader stated this while welcoming the Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Forum, Sheikh Al-Mahfoudh Bin Bayyah, and his deputy, Pastor Bob Roberts of the United States, who visited him in Washington, USA.
Buhari stated that the foundation's work promoting interfaith dialogue was as important to the rest of the world as it was to Nigeria.
The president also spoke about the need to raise generations of youths devoid of religious extremism and bigotry, urging the group to continue to target the young people who are the promise of the future.
He said: “Your work is very important in helping, especially the youth to understand one another and at the same time, to be proud of their heritage.
This great initiative by you will help future generations to plan well and live together in peace.
On our part, we will continue to solve our problems, especially as they relate to the youths.
“We are big in size and population, facing many challenges, but in many areas, we are trying. In seven-and-a-half years, I have done my best,” said the president.
The secretary-general said they had come to inform the president and to invite him to attend the conferment upon him, the Abu Dhabi Foundation’s award in recognition of his outstanding achievements in promoting peace and security.
He said the conferment was in line with the foundation’s work in fighting religious extremism, promoting peaceful coexistence and dialogue amongst all religions.