Muslim Delegations Join Kaduna Christmas Service to Foster Interreligious Bonds

In a profound demonstration of religious tolerance, hundreds of Muslims from across the 19 Northern states converged on the Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry in Kaduna this Thursday. The gathering, held during the church’s Christmas service, served as a beacon of hope and a call for national stability amidst a challenging socio-economic landscape.

Pastor Yohanna Buru, the General Overseer of the ministry, welcomed the diverse congregation, which included members of the Tijjaniyya, Sunni, and Shi’ite communities. For Buru—a 2022 recipient of the United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week Award—this event is more than a gesture; it is a decade-and-a-half-long commitment to peace.

“This is the 15th time Muslims and Christians are gathering for this historic annual event to strengthen our relationship and foster unity,” Buru stated during the service.

The atmosphere of the service was one of mutual respect, highlighted by Muslim delegations presenting symbolic gifts to the church. Pastor Buru noted that such displays of friendship are vital as Nigeria grapples with rising food prices, unemployment, and security concerns. He emphasized that the commonalities between the two faiths far outweigh their differences.

“We are all children of Adam and Eve. We worship one God, have holy books, and believe in paradise and hell. These shared values should unite us,” he said.

Beyond the spiritual message, Buru called on the nation to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in their ongoing efforts to secure the country.

The service featured several prominent Islamic scholars who echoed the call for a unified front against religious intolerance and social vices.

Sheikh Salihu Mai-Barota expressed that the presence of Muslim scholars was intended to encourage peace and advised the younger generation to be wary of misinformation. He urged youths to avoid spreading fake news on social media and to shun religious violence.

Imam Ibrahim Musa, representing the Igabi Local Government Area, noted that these interfaith visits are reciprocal. He reminded the congregation that Christians and Muslims frequently share in one another’s celebrations, including the birth of Prophet Muhammad, to build mutual respect. He described the annual service as a “strong symbol of interfaith harmony.”

Sheikh Ahmed Rufai and Mallam Lawal Maduru also addressed the crowd, focusing their remarks on the responsibilities of the youth, specifically warning against drug abuse and the reckless use of digital platforms.

The event concluded with joint prayers for the peace and prosperity of Nigeria, reinforcing the sentiment that interfaith cooperation remains a cornerstone of the nation’s path forward.