Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Nigeria’s Vice President, says that religious leaders must use faith to promote peace, ensure people’s prosperity, and society’s development, in addition to spiritual upliftment.
Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Saturday evening when he received the Senegal-based Grand Khalifa of Tijjaniya Movement, Worldwide, His Eminence, Sheikh Muhammadu Mahi Ibrahim Niass on a courtesy visit at the Presidential Villa, according to a release from the Vice President’s Office.
“We must use our faiths to promote peace and prosperity for our people,” the Vice President said, emphasizing the importance of religion in human development. To ensure that our people benefit from religion, we must work together.
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“We tend to overlook the importance of religion, despite the fact that it is vital to the development of society, not only spiritually but also physically.”
“Many nations around the world have benefited spiritually and physically from the impact of religion. As a result, we must use religion in our countries (in Africa) to assist our people in living better lives, just as religious leaders have done in other parts of the world,” he added.
Prof. Osinbajo urged religious leaders to join forces in order to use religion to address societal challenges, saying that “no matter what the situation is, we in Africa must be able to sit together and talk.” We must never allow situations to arise in which we are unable to sit together.
“In light of recent events around the world, people of faith must continue to emphasize that both major religions (Islam and Christianity) promote peace, and we must allow our citizens to practice whatever religion they choose.”
Prof. Osinbajo praised the group’s leader, as well as the Tijjaniya Movement’s progressive ideals and compassion for the people’s needs.
President Buhari, according to the Vice President, is a model of a leader who accommodates people of various religious backgrounds, citing his 7-year relationship with the President as an example.
“President Buhari is a serious Muslim, and I am a pastor,” he says, “and we have worked together for about 7 years with no issues.”
“The President has shown great leadership; he has demonstrated that he wants a country where people of various faiths live in peace and love.”
Sheikh Niass, speaking in French, expressed gratitude to the Vice President for the opportunity to meet with him and his delegation, describing the vice president as a great personality, one that Nigeria and Africa require.
“The Vice President is a great personality with exceptional character who stands on two feet: one as a political leader concerned about his people’s progress, and the other as a man of God.”
“Africa requires a person of your nature with a strong religious and political background. I pray that Almighty Allah will upgrade you and grant you your desires and aspirations, because, as I previously stated, your leadership qualities will benefit not only Nigeria but Africa as well.”
“Nigeria is the heart of Africa,” he continued, “and whatever Nigeria becomes, Africa becomes.”
The Tijjaniya leader also expressed his gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for his support, praying for his safety and for Nigeria to overcome its challenges.
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The vice president promised to convey to the President the Sheik’s warm greetings and appreciation.
The Grand Khalifa of Tijjaniya and other members of the Movement from across Africa gathered in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, to commemorate the Movement’s late leader Sheikh Ibrahim Niass’ 36th International Maulid Anniversary.
