The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Muslims and Christians across the country to strengthen their partnership in tackling insecurity, poverty, unemployment and other challenges threatening Nigeria’s unity and development.
The Council made the call while congratulating the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on its 50th anniversary, describing the golden jubilee as a significant milestone for the Christian community and the country.
In a congratulatory message issued on Wednesday, the NSCIA, under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, urged religious leaders to use the anniversary to renew their commitment to national unity, justice, security and peaceful coexistence.
The message, signed by the Council’s Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, acknowledged the difficult periods Nigeria had experienced over the years, stressing that religious institutions had important roles to play in promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful relations among citizens.
According to the Council, the relationship between Muslims and Christians remains crucial to Nigeria’s stability and progress, considering the significant proportion of the population represented by the two religious communities.
It maintained that both faiths shared a collective responsibility to promote peace, uphold justice, strengthen national security and encourage responsible citizenship.
The NSCIA warned that Nigeria’s challenges could not be overcome through isolated efforts, stressing the need for a united national response to insecurity, poverty, unemployment, social inequality and demands for accountable governance.
It called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious affiliation, to contribute to addressing the problems confronting the country and advancing sustainable development.
The Council also reaffirmed its commitment to interfaith engagement, emphasising the need for Muslim and Christian leaders to sustain constructive communication and cooperation on issues affecting the nation.
It specifically acknowledged the role of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) and similar platforms in bringing religious leaders together to discuss matters relating to peace, unity and national development.
The NSCIA said sustained dialogue would help build trust, address shared concerns and prevent religious differences from undermining the country’s collective interests.
It added that CAN’s golden jubilee should provide an opportunity for religious leaders to reflect on their responsibilities in promoting national cohesion and peaceful relations among citizens.
The Council stressed that differences in religious beliefs should not become grounds for division, hostility or violence, but should encourage greater commitment to justice, compassion, peaceful coexistence and service to humanity.
Congratulating CAN on its 50th anniversary, the NSCIA extended its goodwill to the association’s President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, members of its National Executive Committee, affiliated Christian denominations and associations, and Christians across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
It also wished the association’s leadership wisdom and guidance as it continues to discharge its national and religious responsibilities.
