MUSLIM, CHRISTIAN LEADERS IN BORNO CALL FOR RELIGIOUS HARMONY

Muslim and Christian leaders in Borno State have called on their followers to embrace peaceful coexistence and religious harmony, saying unity is essential for the state’s development.

The leaders made the call at an interfaith gathering in Maiduguri organised by the Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Borno State chapter, Special Apostle Joshua Akeredolu.

Akeredolu said the meeting was organised to bring Christians and Muslims together to discuss peace, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

He said people should recognise one another as human beings and creations of God before allowing religious differences to divide them.

Akeredolu described the gathering as significant because it brought together representatives from different Christian and Muslim groups to promote dialogue and understanding.

He said the participants agreed that lasting peace was necessary for development in Borno State and Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Jumaat Imam of the Federal Government College Maiduguri Central Mosque, Ali Isah, said Borno’s experience with years of insurgency had reinforced the importance of religious harmony.

Isah said both Christianity and Islam promote peace and condemn violence, extremism, and fanaticism.

He urged religious leaders to continue educating their followers about peaceful coexistence and discourage hatred and intolerance.

The leaders called on Christians and Muslims across Borno to reject religious divisions and work together to strengthen peace, trust, and development in their communities.

They said sustained interfaith dialogue would help rebuild relationships and support the state’s recovery from years of insecurity.