Shettima seeks interfaith collaboration to strengthen national unity

By Chesa Chesa

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged religious leaders and faith-based organisations to deepen interfaith collaboration to promote peaceful coexistence, national unity and Nigeria’s economic development.

Shettima also called on religious leaders to support President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as necessary measures to address longstanding structural challenges and reposition the country for sustainable growth.

The Vice President spoke on Thursday when he received a delegation of the Community and Youth Development National Network at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The organisation is a coalition of Islamic religious bodies focused on youth empowerment, peaceful coexistence and leadership development, with an interfaith platform involving Christian leaders and other stakeholders.

Shettima commended the group’s composition, saying its members possessed the intellectual capacity, influence and moral standing to shape public attitudes and promote national cohesion.

He urged the delegation to sustain engagement with Christian leaders and other religious stakeholders, stressing that dialogue and cooperation were essential to building trust across religious and social divides.

“I urge you to be partners in our national progress. Remain undeterred and focused, and let us ensure that whatever binds us supersedes that which divides us,” he said.

The Vice President described Nigeria as a collective responsibility and a shared national heritage that required the loyalty and service of all citizens.

“This nation must be seen as a collective responsibility, a collective patrimony which deserves all our loyalty and service,” he added.

On the economy, Shettima acknowledged the difficulties associated with the Tinubu administration’s reforms but expressed confidence that they were laying the foundation for improved economic performance and greater prosperity.

He urged religious and community leaders to promote public understanding of government policies, encourage constructive engagement and support initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.

Earlier, the delegation, led by the network’s National Coordinator and Vice Chairman II, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, reaffirmed its commitment to religious tolerance, youth development and peaceful coexistence.

The organisation also stressed the need for stronger cooperation among religious groups and other stakeholders to advance national stability, responsible leadership and inclusive development.

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