- Sultan of Sokoto calls for interfaith understanding and knowledge-sharing among Muslims to foster peace and unity in Nigeria
- The 10th Annual Usman Dan Fodio Lecture emphasizes the importance of strengthening the Islamic faith and promoting understanding among believers
To foster peace and unity in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar, has made a compelling appeal to followers of the Islamic faith. He emphasizes the significance of gaining knowledge about other belief systems to promote harmonious coexistence within the nation.
Addressing a gathering in Ilọrin, the capital of Kwara State, during the 10th Annual Usman Dan Fodio Lecture, the Sultan advocated for interfaith understanding to achieve a more peaceful society. He urged Muslims to not only acquire knowledge about the teachings of Islam but also to apply these teachings in their lives, striving to become better individuals.
The 10th Annual Usman Dan Fodio Lecture, an integral part of the Usman Dan Fodio week, which commenced in Sokoto State, serves as a platform for Muslims to enhance their knowledge and share wisdom, ultimately fortifying the Islamic faith.
The Sultan underscored the historical foundation of the Sokoto Caliphate, emphasizing its roots in knowledge rather than ignorance. He contends that it is a collective obligation for all Muslims to seek knowledge actively, pass it down to their descendants, and disseminate accurate information about Islam to counteract the spread of false narratives.
Alhaji Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar, as the President General of NSCIA, believes that choosing Ilorin as the location for the lecture was a deliberate decision. It is meant to symbolize the unity among Muslims, highlighting that they are indeed “one big family.”
Explaining the choice, he stated, “Why Ilorin? Somebody may ask that question because there are issues about whether we should take it to Lagos or other cities. But the truth is that if we are coming down south, we must come home because of our common heritage. We are one family, and it is important to share knowledge and educate people across the globe.”
The Sultan’s message to the attendees was clear – they were there to gain insights into the actions of their forefathers who dedicated themselves to strengthening the Islamic faith. Their ancestors didn’t just introduce Islam to the world; they adhered to the divine words and reinforced the religion.
The distinguished lecturer, Dr. Zakir AbdulKarim Naik, a renowned international scholar, delved into “The Concept of God In Major World Religions.” His expertise shed light on the similarities and differences between various faiths, further promoting understanding and tolerance.
Notable figures present at the event included the Grand Khadi of Kwara State Sharia Court of Appeal, Justice Mohammed Kamaldeen, representing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari; the Registrar of JAMB and Secretary-General of NSCIA, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede; and the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Mohammed Bashir Salihu, among others.
The 10th Annual Usman Dan Fodio Lecture in Ilorin was a pivotal moment for Muslims in Nigeria to deepen their understanding of their faith, promote interfaith dialogue, and work collectively towards a more peaceful and harmonious society.