By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged religious leaders across Africa and beyond to speak against terrorism, kidnapping and banditry. Tinubu made the call on Sunday in Kano during the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani, RTA. He said religious leaders must use their influence to promote peace, justice and responsible citizenship. The President also warned against using religion to justify violence and the killing of innocent people.
Tinubu Calls for Stronger Religious Advocacy
President Tinubu delivered the message through Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
The SGF represented the President at the gathering in Kano.
The event attracted scholars, spiritual leaders and Tijjaniyya adherents from Nigeria and other countries.
Tinubu said religious leaders have a major role in confronting violence and extremism.
He urged them to reject every attempt to manipulate faith for destructive purposes.
“Your voices must be raised consistently against the murder of innocent people, terrorism, kidnapping and banditry,” Tinubu said.
He also urged religious institutions to promote peace education and religious literacy.
According to him, scholarship and moral training can help shape responsible young people.
President Rejects Religion-Based Violence
Tinubu stressed that religion must never become a tool for violence.
He urged religious leaders to promote justice, responsibility and compassion.
He also asked them to remind citizens that grievances cannot justify lawlessness.
The President said genuine service to Allah cannot involve destroying innocent lives.
He further urged spiritual leaders to teach restraint, peaceful dialogue and respect for human life.
Global Crises Demand Religious Intervention
Tinubu said the Maulud came at a critical period for the global community.
He noted that many societies now face conflicts and growing uncertainty.
Climate shocks, food shortages and energy challenges also threaten communities worldwide.
Meanwhile, violent extremism and transnational crimes continue to create serious security threats.
The President cited a UNHCR report showing widespread forced displacement.
According to him, 117.8 million people faced forced displacement globally at the end of 2025.
Tinubu said such challenges require stronger intervention from spiritual leaders.
He described religious leaders as guardians of society’s conscience.
He said they can heal wounds, resolve grievances and reduce hatred.
Tijjaniyya Can Support Peacebuilding
President Tinubu highlighted the extensive Tijjaniyya network across Africa.
He said the group has strong spiritual links across West Africa and North Africa.
According to him, these networks can support peacebuilding across the Sahel and wider region.
Tinubu urged the Tijjaniyya community to support reconciliation and counter-extremism efforts.
He also called for stronger youth guidance and humanitarian support.
The President said religious networks possess significant moral influence.
He urged them to use that influence for peace and social stability.
Tinubu Seeks Stronger Community Partnerships
The President said the Federal Government recognises religious leaders as important peacebuilding partners.
He also highlighted the role of traditional leaders in promoting national unity.
According to Tinubu, both groups can help counter misinformation and identity-based division.
They can also strengthen grassroots peacebuilding and peaceful coexistence.
The President reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional security cooperation.
He also listed counter-terrorism, maritime security and economic integration among key priorities.
Tinubu said Nigeria’s strategic position gives its stability regional importance.
The country connects West Africa, the Sahel, the Lake Chad Basin and the Gulf of Guinea.
Therefore, peace in Nigeria can affect stability across neighbouring regions.
Religious Values Can Strengthen National Cohesion
Tinubu said religious partnerships should promote important ethical values.
He listed truthfulness, compassion, justice, restraint and service among those values.
He also emphasised the sanctity of human life.
The President described Nigeria’s diversity as one of its greatest strengths.
He assured citizens that the government would protect religious freedom.
At the same time, he promised stronger cooperation with religious and traditional institutions.
The goal, he said, remains peace, mutual respect and national cohesion.
Foreign Guests Attend Kano Maulud
Tinubu welcomed international guests who attended the Maulud in Kano.
The gathering attracted visitors from Algeria, Morocco, Senegal and Egypt.
He described Nigeria as a country with deep Tijjaniyya traditions.
The President highlighted the order’s contributions to scholarship and moral instruction.
He also praised its emphasis on remembrance, service and peaceful community life.
Tinubu recalled meeting a delegation from the Supreme Council of Tijjaniyya.
The delegation visited the State House in Abuja recently.
During that meeting, members prayed for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity.
They also prayed for stronger relations between Nigeria and Algeria.
Maulud Offers Opportunity for Reflection
Tinubu said the Maulud provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal.
He urged adherents to reflect on the teachings of Islam.
He also highlighted the love of Prophet Muhammad and Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani’s legacy.
According to him, humility, mercy and wisdom remain essential Islamic virtues.
He also urged believers to embrace service and provide comfort to others.
Tinubu Honours Late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi
The President paid tribute to the late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi.
He said the late scholar played a significant role in the Tijjaniyya community.
The Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Foundation helped organise the Maulud.
Tinubu described his absence as deeply felt at the gathering.
He recalled describing Sheikh Dahiru after his death in November 2025.
The President called him a teacher, father and voice of moderation.
He also praised his advocacy for peace, piety and reason.
Tinubu said his legacy should continue to guide future generations.
He identified Qur’anic scholarship and moral instruction as key parts of that legacy.
He also highlighted devotion to Allah, respect for learning and peaceful coexistence.
Tinubu Thanks Organisers and Participants
The President thanked the Supreme Council of Tijjaniyya for supporting the event.
He also appreciated the Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Foundation.
Tinubu commended the Kano State Government and its people.
He also praised scholars, traditional rulers and security agencies.
Emergency services, volunteers and other organisers also received his appreciation.
The President said Nigeria was honoured by the international gathering.
He prayed for the safe return of all visitors to their countries.
Tinubu also prayed for the acceptance of the prayers and acts of devotion offered during the Maulud.
