He made the statement on Wednesday during the opening of the 2025 triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja. The event, themed “Collaboration of Inter-Religious Council with Government to Promote Peace in Nigeria,” brought together prominent religious and political leaders.
The Sultan emphasised that Nigeria is a multi-religious country where government supports the development of both major faiths without favouring any as a state religion. He urged leaders to avoid actions that could inflame religious tensions and reminded citizens that everyone is free to practice their faith without interference.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of stronger collaboration between NIREC and the federal government to counter insecurity and extremism. Tajudeen noted that religious divisions are often exploited by extremists to weaken national unity.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, highlighted internal security challenges and declining public trust, cautioning that Nigeria is often misrepresented abroad due to distorted narratives. He assured that the government remains committed to citizens’ safety and called on religious and traditional leaders to strengthen peace efforts.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described insecurity as a major threat to national coexistence and called for deeper cooperation between faith-based organisations and the government.
Meanwhile, NIREC Executive Secretary, Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua, urged coordinated action against terrorism and banditry, advocating national unity, behavioural change, and renewed commitment to shared values.
