Sultan of Sokoto Advocates for Religious Freedom and Tolerance

In a powerful statement at the NSCIA General Assembly in Abuja, Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, emphasized that no one should be coerced into converting to Islam, highlighting the importance of respecting individuals' rights to choose their faith.

"We do not intend to force anybody to join Islam," he declared, reinforcing the principle that conversion must stem from personal conviction. He referenced the Quranic verse asserting that "there is no compulsion in religion," underscoring the need for voluntary faith.

The Sultan’s remarks come amid rising concerns over religious intolerance and tensions between various faith communities in Nigeria. He urged Christians and Muslims alike to foster mutual respect and refrain from derogatory remarks towards each other.

During the International Conference on National Security for Socio-economic Development, organized by Jama’atu Izalatil Bidiah wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS Nigeria) in partnership with the Muslim World League of Saudi Arabia, Abubakar reiterated the call for interfaith tolerance.

“We must address the reality that Christians can stop insulting Muslims, and Muslims can stop insulting Christians. That’s the path to peace,” he stated.

He asserted that both faiths should recognize their equality before God, rejecting notions of superiority among religious groups. 

Furthering the discourse, NSCIA Secretary-General Prof. Ishaq Oloyede urged Muslim parents to provide their children with a balanced education that includes both Islamic and Western perspectives. He highlighted that many Muslim-majority states are lagging in educational attainment and must prioritize comprehensive learning.

“The current generation must be sound in both Islamic and Western education,” Oloyede stressed, advocating for increased representation of qualified Muslims in media and employment sectors.

On the topic of Hajj, he questioned the extent of government involvement in organizing the pilgrimage, suggesting that its role should be primarily facilitative and not financially burdensome for those unable to afford it.

The leadership of the NSCIA’s statements reflect a broader commitment to advancing religious tolerance, educational equity, and greater Muslim participation in national discourse.

As Nigeria navigates its complex religious landscape, the Sultan’s message resonates as a call for unity and understanding among its diverse communities.