President Bola Tinubu has called on religious leaders to refrain from cursing or condemning the nation in their sermons.

Tinubu during the Ramadan Iftar with traditional rulers and religious leaders on Thursday, stressed the significant role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.

He urged the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of those in elective positions, adding that his administration was determined to turn Nigeria’s challenges into prosperity.

“The love of the nation is in your hands. Pray for our country. Educate our children. The sermons we preach to the members of our churches and mosques are important.

“Do not condemn your own nation. As a Yoruba man and as our fathers will say, ‘No matter how slippery the bottom of your child is, you must leave the beads there.’

“Leave the beads there. This is your country; do not condemn it in sermons; do not abuse the nation. Leadership is meant for change.

“Yes, this leader is bad, Fine. Wait until the next election to change him, but do not condemn your country. Do not curse Nigeria. This is a beautiful land.”