Speak out against terrorism, banditry, Tinubu urges clerics
President Bola Tinubu called on religious and spiritual leaders to actively oppose terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and the misuse of religion to justify violence. His message, delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, during the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani in Kano, emphasized the critical role these leaders play in promoting peace, education, and moral development. Tinubu highlighted global challenges such as conflict, displacement, and extremist threats, citing a UNHCR report indicating 117.8 million displaced people worldwide. He praised the Tijjaniyya community for its potential in reconciliation and youth guidance, and reiterated Nigeria's commitment to regional cooperation and counter-terrorism efforts.
President Bola Tinubu has called on religious and spiritual leaders to take a more active role in condemning terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the exploitation of religion to justify violence. The appeal came during a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, at the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani in Kano on Sunday. The event marked a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to combat extremist activities and foster unity within Nigeria and beyond. In his remarks, Tinubu highlighted the pivotal role that religious leaders could play in addressing the growing threats posed by violent extremism and the misuse of faith. He emphasized that these leaders hold considerable influence over public sentiment and can serve as powerful advocates for peace, justice, and moral development among the younger generation. Tinubu urged them to use their platforms to promote peace education, religious literacy, and the moral formation of young people. The President's message included a direct appeal to religious institutions and networks to strengthen their advocacy efforts. He encouraged them to focus on promoting justice, responsibility, compassion, and the peaceful resolution of grievances. Tinubu stressed that religious leaders should remind both political figures and ordinary citizens that legitimate grievances should not be used as justification for lawlessness or violence. He reiterated that no true service to Allah can be achieved through the destruction of innocent human life, which he described as sacred. Tinubu acknowledged the current global context, noting that societies around the world are grappling with numerous challenges, including conflicts, uncertainty, climate change, food shortages, and violent extremism. Citing a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees report, he stated that 117.8 million people were forcibly displaced globally at the end of 2025. This staggering figure underscored the importance of spiritual leaders in healing wounds, resolving disputes, and addressing deep-rooted hatred and bitterness. The President specifically mentioned the Tijjaniyya community, whose extensive spiritual networks span across West Africa, North Africa, and other regions of the world. He believed that this community could leverage its influence to promote reconciliation, counter violent extremism, guide youth, and provide humanitarian support across the Sahel, West Africa, and beyond. Tinubu expressed confidence that the Tijjaniyya community could serve as a vital partner in building an architecture of social peace that complements the work of governments and regional institutions. Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to regional cooperation, counter-terrorism, maritime security, economic integration, and dialogue. He pointed out that Nigeria's strategic position at the crossroads of West Africa, the Sahel, the Lake Chad Basin, the Gulf of Guinea, and the broader Atlantic world makes its peace and stability crucial to the entire region. He argued that religious communities with deep transnational ties, such as the Tijjaniyya, could contribute significantly to creating a framework for social harmony that supports governmental and institutional efforts. The President concluded by emphasizing the need for partnerships that promote ethical values such as truthfulness, compassion, justice, restraint, service, and respect for the sanctity of human life. He assured that his administration would continue to uphold freedom of worship while working closely with religious and traditional leaders to address pressing societal issues. Tinubu's message reflects a broader strategy aimed at leveraging religious and cultural influences to enhance national cohesion and resilience against emerging threats.
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