The minister of state, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has called on religious leaders to leverage their influence to promote peace, discourage hate speech, and reject violence, extremism, and intolerance.

She urged churches, mosques, and other places of worship to remain sanctuaries of peace, moral instruction, compassion and national unity.

Ms Mahmoud made the call in Abuja on Thursday while delivering a goodwill message at the Interfaith Prayers for Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in preparation for the upcoming 2027 general elections.

Ms Mahmoud encouraged Nigerians to strengthen interfaith unity, peaceful coexistence, and national solidarity as the country continues its journey toward sustainable development and prosperity.

Describing the interfaith gathering as a “powerful demonstration of shared faith in God”, the minister highlighted the collective commitment to the peace, stability, and prosperity of the nation.

She noted that prayer has always occupied a special place in Nigeria’s national life, particularly during periods of uncertainty and moments of great opportunity, stressing that citizens consistently turn to God for wisdom, guidance, and strength.

“Nigeria is greater than its religious, ethnic, and cultural differences,” she stated, emphasising that the nation’s diversity must remain a source of strength rather than division.

She commended the organisers for creating a platform that fosters understanding, tolerance, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence, noting that interfaith engagement was essential for strengthening national cohesion.

Ms Mahmoud urged citizens to continue supporting and praying for Mr Tinubu and his administration as it implements reforms to strengthen the economy, improve infrastructure, create opportunities and build a more prosperous nation.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration (FCTA) to translating the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda into tangible improvements for residents.

She further urged parents and leaders to teach the younger generation that Nigeria belongs to everyone, stressing that differences in religion, ethnicity, or culture should never justify hatred or division.

She called for prayers for peace across Nigerian communities, wisdom for leaders, protection for security personnel, opportunities for youth, empowerment for women, care for vulnerable citizens and prosperity for every Nigerian family.

Ms Mahmoud appealed to Nigerians to rise above individual interests and embrace a shared national destiny, adding that collective faith, unity, and patriotism remain critical to building a peaceful and stable nation.

In her welcome remarks, Aisha Yau, the convener of the event and national president of the Women Initiative for Family Economy, commended the vital role religious leaders play in maintaining peace.

Ms Yau noted that harmonious coexistence between Christians and Muslims is largely rooted in positive sermons from mosques and churches.

She called on religious leaders to intensify their prayers for Mr Tinubu and his cabinet to ensure the smooth implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

(NAN)