By Daniel Tyokua
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged religious leaders across the country to reject hate speech, extremism and intolerance, and use their influence to promote peace ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Mahmoud made the call while delivering a goodwill message at the Interfaith Prayers for Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Thursday by her Special Assistant on Media, Austine Elemue, the minister urged religious leaders to leverage their influential positions to discourage intolerance and foster peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
She also called on Nigerians to strengthen interfaith unity, peaceful coexistence and national solidarity as the country continues its journey towards sustainable development and prosperity.
Mahmoud described the interfaith gathering as a powerful demonstration of Nigerians’ shared faith in God and their collective commitment to the peace, unity, stability and prosperity of the nation.
According to her, prayer has always occupied a special place in Nigeria’s national life, particularly during periods of uncertainty and at moments of great opportunity, noting that Nigerians have consistently turned to God for wisdom, guidance and strength.
The minister stressed that Nigeria is greater than its religious, ethnic and cultural differences, adding that the country’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than become a tool for division.
She commended the organisers of the prayer for creating a platform that promotes understanding, tolerance, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence, stressing that interfaith engagement remains an important instrument for strengthening national cohesion.
Mahmoud further urged Nigerians to continue to support and pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration as it implements reforms and initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy, improving infrastructure, creating opportunities and building a more prosperous Nigeria.
