Muslim World League chief arrives Abuja for interfaith peace conference

Dr. Mohammad Al-Issa, the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, arrived in Abuja on Monday for the Interfaith Peace Conference, a two-day event organized jointly by the Muslim World League and Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS). The conference aims to foster religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and development through dialogue among Muslim and Christian leaders and other stakeholders. Al-Issa was greeted upon his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by several high-ranking Nigerian officials, including the Minister of Information, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmad Aliyu; and members of JIBWIS. The conference is part of a series of international gatherings hosted by the Muslim World League, with previous events taking place in the Americas and Europe. This marks the third such conference, according to Garba Mohammed, Chairman of the Conference Committee. Mohammed emphasized that the event holds significant implications for Nigeria's social and economic development, religious inclusivity, and peacebuilding efforts. He noted that the Muslim World League is a key partner in organizing the conference, effectively acting as a co-host alongside JIBWIS. Mohammed clarified that the conference is not exclusively focused on Islamic development, despite being initiated by an Islamic organization. “It’s for the development of mankind, humanity as a whole,” he stated, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event. The gathering is expected to bring together more than 50 senior dignitaries from diverse sects within both the Muslim and Christian communities, who will endorse the Abuja Declaration, a new initiative aimed at strengthening peace-building efforts in Nigeria and West Africa. The Abuja Declaration is designed to create mechanisms for preventing religious tensions from escalating into violence. It encourages religious leaders to promote moderation, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. The document underscores the importance of collaboration between different faith groups to address common challenges and build a cohesive society. The declaration is anticipated to serve as a framework for future interfaith cooperation and conflict resolution strategies in the region. Dr. Al-Issa, known for his advocacy of moderate Islam and interfaith engagement, is expected to discuss the Muslim World League’s ongoing efforts to enhance relations between religious communities in West Africa. His presence in Nigeria highlights the league's commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding across religious lines. The conference provides a platform for leaders from various backgrounds to share perspectives, experiences, and strategies for promoting harmony and mutual respect. The event follows a series of regional and global initiatives aimed at addressing rising religious tensions and promoting interfaith dialogue. In recent years, there have been increasing calls for collaborative approaches to tackle issues related to religious extremism and intolerance. The participation of high-profile figures from both the Muslim and Christian communities signals a growing recognition of the need for unity and cooperation in achieving lasting peace. As the conference progresses, participants are expected to engage in discussions on topics ranging from religious education to community development. These conversations aim to identify practical steps that can be taken to bridge divides and foster a culture of inclusivity. The outcomes of these deliberations could influence policy decisions and grassroots initiatives aimed at enhancing social cohesion and reducing conflicts rooted in religious differences. The significance of the conference extends beyond Nigeria, as it represents a broader effort to address religious tensions in West Africa. With the involvement of international organizations and local stakeholders, the event underscores the potential for cross-border collaboration in promoting peace and stability. As the two-day conference unfolds, its impact on interfaith relations and societal development in Nigeria and the wider region will become increasingly evident.