Muslim and Christian clerics in Kaduna State have united in a rare display of interfaith solidarity, championing the creation of Rigasa Local Government Area as a shared pathway to peace, development and inclusive governance.
Their joint campaign, which transcends religious boundaries, underscores a growing grassroots movement focused on community empowerment and cooperation for national progress.
The Afaka Ward Technical Working Committee formally submitted a petition supported by 318,600 signatories to the movement’s Central Working Committee (CWC) during a ceremony that celebrated cooperation over conflict and division.
The event reflected the ideals of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), where shared progress is placed above religious differences. Traditional rulers, youth representatives and clerics from both major faiths stood united in a common vision for local empowerment.
Chairman of the Technical Committee, Tasiu Musa, presented the data, describing the impressive turnout as proof of the people’s collective will. He commended the CWC for its guidance and support, which enabled the wide-reaching ,grassroots-driven mobilisation.
One of the most remarkable moments of the ceremony was the joint endorsement by religious leaders, who framed the initiative as a just cause for development that transcends faith and ethnicity.
In a strong show of cross-faith solidarity, Reverend Job David Abubakar, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Airport Afaka, stood beside Muslim leaders to express full support.
“This movement is for the collective good of our community,” Reverend Abubakar said, offering prayers for unity and sustainable development
His message was echoed by Muslim clerics. Malam Bashir Adam Saleh Algoni, Deputy Imam of Zangon Daura Jumma’at Mosque, commended the effort and prayed for divine guidance and continued peace.
Similarly, Sheikh Muhammadu Salisu Musa Sudais, a Chief Imam in the community, described the campaign as a shared pursuit of growth and inclusivity. He applauded the committees for their diligence and urged sustained cooperation, noting that development is a universal goal that transcends religious affiliation.
Chairman of the Central Working Committee, Alhaji Muazu Abubakar Mohamed Ruma (Tafidan Afaka), hailed the collaboration as historic.
“When our religious leaders stand together and the people speak with one voice through over 318,000 signatures, it sends a powerful message.We appeal to the National Assembly and the Executive to heed this call for development, built upon the solid foundation of national unity.,he said .
The event stands as a symbol of hope and harmony, demonstrating that at the grassroots level, Nigerians are bridging divides and working collectively for progress.
The submission from Afaka Ward reinforces earlier demands from Rigasa Ward, moving the proposal forward to the Kaduna State and National Assemblies on a wave of communal harmony and shared purpose.