President Bola Tinubu on Sunday in Kano called on religious and spiritual leaders across Africa and beyond to consistently raise their voices against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and the misuse of religion to justify violence and cruelty. Speaking at the Grand Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tijani, the President stressed that no genuine service to God can be advanced through the destruction of innocent human life.
The message was delivered on his behalf by George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, according to Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Addressing the World Khalifa of the Tijjaniyya Order, scholars, and international delegates, President Tinubu noted that religious leaders bear a vital responsibility in confronting extremism and the manipulation of faith.
Confronting extremism and global crises
Citing a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees report that 117.8 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide at the end of 2025, the President noted that the gathering occurred at a critical juncture in human history. Societies globally face conflicts, climate shocks, energy crises, violent extremism, and the dangerous manipulation of identity.
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“Your voices must be raised consistently against the murder of innocent people, against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and the misuse of religion to justify cruelty,” President Tinubu said. He urged spiritual institutions to strengthen advocacy for peace education, religious literacy, and the moral formation of young people, while holding political leaders accountable to standards of justice and compassion.
Harnessing transnational moral capital
Describing the Tijjaniyya community as a network with extensive moral capital across North and West Africa, the President highlighted its potential for reconciliation, youth guidance, and humanitarian solidarity. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation, maritime security, and dialogue, emphasising that national stability remains deeply intertwined with the wider security architecture of the Sahel and the Gulf of Guinea.
The President paid tribute to the late Islamic scholar Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, praising his lifelong advocacy for peace, piety, and Qur’anic scholarship. He welcomed international guests from Algeria, Morocco, Senegal, and Egypt, concluding that the preservation of such legacies represents the truest monument to societal well-being.
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