The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Nigerian Muslims to unite, uphold their faith and protect their right to practice Islam without hindrance.
The Sultan made the call at the NSCIA General Assembly held at the National Mosque in Abuja.
He described the gathering as significant, noting that it was the council’s first General Assembly in about seven years and provided an opportunity for Muslim leaders from across Nigeria to exchange ideas and strengthen their unity.
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The Sultan said the council had continued to hold expanded General Purpose Committee meetings, but some decisions and engagements could only be undertaken through a properly constituted General Assembly.
He attributed the delay in convening the assembly partly to financial constraints, saying the council had sought support to enable it to continue carrying out its responsibilities to the Muslim community.
Active Engagement
The Sultan said the assembly was taking place at a critical time, given the challenges facing Nigeria and the wider world.
He urged Muslims to remain conscious of their responsibilities and play constructive roles in addressing issues affecting their faith and welfare.
He said Muslims should not remain passive when matters concerning their religious interests arise, but should engage responsibly in protecting their rights.
The Sultan stressed that Islam does not support coercion in matters of faith, saying Muslims do not seek to force anyone to embrace the religion.
“What we need in this country and anywhere else is for us, as Muslims, to be allowed to practice our religion without hindrance,” he said.
He also urged Muslims to support people who voluntarily embrace Islam and help them practise their faith.
Humility, Service
The Sultan called on Muslim leaders and members of the Ummah to promote humility and equality, stressing that piety remains the true measure of a person’s worth.
“The best amongst us is he who is most pious,” he said.
He further encouraged Muslims to continue serving humanity, whether publicly or privately, noting that valuable contributions do not have to be publicised.
The Sultan thanked delegates for attending the General Assembly and expressed confidence that the deliberations would strengthen unity and renew commitment to the advancement of the Muslim Ummah.
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