Nigerian Muslim and Christian leaders sign interfaith pact in Abuja
Over 50 Muslim and Christian figures endorsed a new interfaith agreement in Abuja, creating a body to foster religious coexistence in Nigeria.
In Abuja, a gathering of over 50 Muslim and Christian leaders formalized an interfaith peace accord, launching a new entity to advance religious tolerance throughout Nigeria's roughly equal Muslim north and Christian south. The signing, hosted by the Saudi-based Muslim World League, omitted any mention of former U.S. President Donald Trump's earlier comments on the country. Speakers highlighted the need to curb extremist ideas and stop hate speech, with Christian leader John Praise Daniel urging an end to labeling others as infidels.
Muslim representative Khalid Abubakar stressed cooperation without abandoning one's faith. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, representing President Bola Tinubu, affirmed the government's commitment to national unity as the nation approaches the 2027 presidential election, where religion is expected to play a pivotal role.
Why it matters
The pact seeks to reduce sectarian tension in Nigeria, a nation split along religious lines, ahead of a crucial election.
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