Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on religious organisations in Nigeria to promote peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and shared societal values among their followers as a foundation for national unity and sustainable development.
The Vice President made the call on Sunday while declaring open the 29th Annual National Qur’anic Recitation Competition at the JIBWIS Islamic Centre, Guzape, Abuja. He noted that meaningful development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace, unity and harmonious coexistence, adding that the current administration has continued to implement policies aimed at fostering national cohesion.
Represented by the Special Adviser on General Duties to the President, Office of the Vice President, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar, Shettima commended Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) for its sustained efforts in promoting Islamic education and teachings across the country.
He urged the organisation to maintain the momentum and assured it of the federal government’s continued support.
The Vice President also called on the Muslim Ummah to shun social vices capable of tarnishing the image of Islam, stressing the importance of upholding moral conduct and discipline in line with religious teachings.
In his remarks, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, reminded Muslims of the purpose of their creation, urging them to worship Allah (SWT) in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Qur’an.
He praised JIBWIS for supporting government policies and programmes, assuring Nigerians that the administration would continue to work towards improving livelihoods and delivering dividends of democracy.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the National Chairman of the Council of Ulamas, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, paid tribute to the late founder of JIBWIS, Sheikh Ismail Idris Ibn Zakariya of Jos, acknowledging his sacrifices and contributions to the propagation of Islam.
Sheikh Jingir also commended the Tinubu-led administration for the relative peace currently being enjoyed in the country, while calling for increased support to security agencies to tackle banditry, kidnapping, militancy and other forms of criminality.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including former Vice President Arc. Muhammad Namadi Sambo (Sardaunan Zazzau), serving and former members of the National Assembly, Sheikh Yusuf Sambo Rigachikun, prominent Islamic scholars and members of the business community.
At the event, former Vice President Namadi Sambo and Minister of Transportation Said Ahmed Alkali each donated ₦3 million to the organisation, while the Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Hon. Abubakar Kabiru Bichi, redeemed his ₦50 million pledge in support of JIBWIS.
