Yemi Osinbajo, the Vice President of Nigeria, believes that unity and tolerance are essential qualities for maintaining peace and stability in a multi-religious community such as the country.
When he received a delegation of Imams, Islamic scholars, and Muslim leaders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo stated his opinion.
An international delegation of more than 25 Islamic clerics, thinkers, and leaders from various groups was assembled, including the National Council of Ulamas, Qadiriyya Movement, Fitianul Islam of Nigeria, Dariya Sect, and the National Council of Muslim Youths.
A number of other groups are involved, including the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria, Jammat Tajdidul Islam, the Salafiyya Youth Movement, Imams from the National Mosque, and representatives from the Federal Government's Apo and Abuja offices, among others.
The group considered matters such as how to promote Nigeria's unity, among other things.
President Yemi Osinbajo expressed his excitement at meeting the guests, adding, "It is not often that one has the honour of receiving such a visit."
Dr. Abdul Hakeem Abdul Lateef, the Chief Imam of the Lagos State House of Assembly, hailed the Vice President as a leader who loves all Nigerians, regardless of religious or ethnic divides, in a statement.
"We have come to express our appreciation for your affection for all Nigerians and your conviction in the harmonious coexistence of our country. " This kind of affection you have for all Nigerians is something we comprehend."
In his testimony, Abdul Lateef, a former Commissioner for Home Affairs, claimed that no fewer than 18 Muslims were among the senior cadre of Osinbajo's staff, which included the Deputy Chief of Staff, Rahman Ade Ipaye.
Prof. Siraj Abdulkarim, the delegation's leader, stated that they had travelled to Osinbajo because they "loved this country."
The expert stated that there should be an end to the pointless rivalry between Christians and Muslims and urged on the Vice President to launch a programme to promote understanding.
"I have gained knowledge from what I have heard today, and I have taken note of all of the difficulties." I wish we'd had a little more time to talk. I agree that we should be more involved.
"The concerns you have addressed demonstrate unequivocally that the elites, particularly religious and political elites, hold the key to the destiny of this country."
Academician and Chief Imam of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Ibrahim Maqari, has stated that religious leaders have a "responsibility to pray for Nigeria."
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