By Ibrahim Muhammad Kano Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has restated his administration’s commitment to religiou...
By Ibrahim Muhammad Kano
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has restated his administration’s commitment to religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and the protection of every citizen’s right to freely practice their faith without discrimination.
The governor made the pledge on Monday while receiving the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Professor Nazila Ghanea, who led a delegation to Kano as part of a nationwide assessment of religious freedom in Nigeria.
The statement, signed by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, said Governor Yusuf was represented at the meeting by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim.
“Kano Is a Model of Peaceful Coexistence”
Welcoming the UN delegation, the SSG emphasized Kano’s longstanding reputation as a state where people of different religious backgrounds live side by side in peace, mutual respect, and understanding.
Governor Yusuf noted that his administration continues to support policies and institutions that strengthen social harmony, uphold justice, and protect the constitutional rights of all residents regardless of religious affiliation.
He said the state remains committed to fostering dialogue among religious communities and addressing emerging challenges through lawful and inclusive mechanisms that promote peace and stability.
Role of Traditional, Religious Leaders
The governor explained that Kano recognizes the critical role of traditional institutions, religious leaders, and community stakeholders in sustaining harmony and preventing tensions that could threaten peaceful coexistence.
He assured the UN team of the state’s readiness to cooperate with national and international bodies working to advance human rights, religious freedom, and respect for diversity.
UN Mission’s Focus
Speaking during the engagement, Professor Ghanea said her visit was aimed at examining the situation of freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria. This includes reviewing constitutional and institutional safeguards, challenges faced by religious communities, the role of traditional practices, and ongoing efforts to address religious discrimination and tensions.
The delegation held discussions with senior government officials and other stakeholders on measures being implemented to strengthen interfaith understanding, protect fundamental freedoms, and promote peaceful relations among communities.
Governor Yusuf thanked the United Nations Human Rights Council for selecting Kano as one of the states to be visited. He reiterated his administration’s determination to preserve the state’s legacy of religious tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence.
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