The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, has urged the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, to establish the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The ministry would promote interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence in the country and would be charged with the responsibility to promote religious tolerance and understanding among Nigerians. Mr Bayero made the call during the inauguration of the Interfaith Facilitators’ Guide, organized by ActionAid Nigeria in Kano, on Friday. The Emir described Kano as a bastion of peace, where followers of various religions have no axe to grind.
He underscored the fact that peace is indispensable in all aspects of life and must be safeguarded. He described the interfaith dialogue as timely, promoting peaceful coexistence, and added that Kano had been occupying a prominent position in accommodating people of diverse faiths. Ene Obi, the country director of ActionAid Nigeria, also emphasized that there was a need for Nigerians to uphold the virtues of interfaith dialogue towards promoting peaceful coexistence in the country.
She said, “We must be seen to live in peace with one another irrespective of tribe, religion, and political differences for our collective political growth.” Dr. Muhammad Mustapha-Yahaya, Executive Director of the Dispute Resolution and Development Initiative, added that the interfaith facilitators’ guide would help address violent extremism in the country.
He said, “Violent extremism is on the increase in different parts of the globe, hence measures need to be taken in ensuring that the menace does not escalate in Kano State and other parts of the country.” The establishment of a Ministry of Religious Affairs could promote interfaith harmony in Nigeria, fostering the nation’s unity.
