Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and the protection of citizens’ rights to freely practice their faiths without discrimination.
The governor made the declaration while receiving the United Nations, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Nazila Ghanea, who led a delegation on an official visit to Kano as part of a nationwide assessment of religious freedom in Nigeria.
A statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, said Governor Yusuf, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, welcomed the delegation and highlighted Kano’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
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The governor noted that his administration has continued to support policies and institutions that promote social harmony, justice and the protection of constitutional rights regardless of religious affiliation.
Strengthening Dialogue
According to him, the state remains committed to strengthening dialogue among religious communities and addressing emerging challenges through lawful and inclusive measures aimed at sustaining peace and stability.
Governor Yusuf also emphasised the role of traditional institutions, religious leaders and community stakeholders in fostering understanding and preventing tensions that could undermine social cohesion.
He assured the UN delegation of Kano State’s readiness to collaborate with national and international organisations working to advance human rights, religious freedom and respect for diversity.
The Governor expressed appreciation to the UN Human Rights Council for selecting Kano as one of the states for the assessment visit.
He reiterated his administration’s determination to preserve the state’s legacy of unity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking during the visit, Professor Ghanea explained that the mission was aimed at assessing the state of freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria, including existing constitutional safeguards, challenges faced by religious communities, and efforts to address discrimination and religious tensions.
The delegation held discussions with government officials and other stakeholders on measures being implemented to promote interfaith understanding, safeguard fundamental freedoms and strengthen peaceful relations among communities.
