Writing Daniel Karlmax; Editing By Godwin Duru
The General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, Pastor Yohanna Buru has led a delegation of Christian scholars and pastors to the Eid praying ground aimed at strengthening peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance, and unity among Nigerians
Speaking shortly after the Eid prayers at Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna, Pastor Buru called on Nigerians to embrace peace, love, and unity for the progress of the nation.
“Nigeria can achieve its full potential when we work together and embrace peace,” he said while congratulating Muslims on the successful celebration of Eid-el-Kabir and praying for continued peace and prosperity in the country.
The cleric also congratulated the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, alongside other top prominent Islamic leaders, stressing that the visit by the team of pastors was aimed at strengthening good relationships and promoting unity in Northern Nigeria.
The event, which focused on fostering love, unity, and religious tolerance, was described as another important step toward promoting peaceful coexistence and better understanding between Christians and Muslims in the country.
According to Pastor Buru, this marked the fifth consecutive year he and his team had participated in Eid celebrations at the central mosque, demonstrating their long-standing commitment to peace and harmony.
Addressing thousands of Muslim faithful gathered at the Eid praying ground, Pastor Buru noted that, the Sallah celebrations provided an opportunity for Christians and Muslims to interact, build friendships, and promote national unity.
Prominent personalities who attended the Eid prayers included former Kaduna State Governor, Alhaji Ramalan Yero, top politicians, respected Islamic scholars, traditional leaders, women, and children, highlighting the importance of interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Pastor Buru urged both Christians and Muslims to continue praying for peace and unity in Nigeria.
: “We must remember that we are one family under God, worshipping the same Creator. Both the Qur’an and the Bible are holy books sent by one God,” he said, urging Nigerians to set aside their differences and work together for a united and prosperous nation.
“We came with a team of pastors to congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters and to strengthen good relationships for peace and unity in Northern Nigeria,” he added.
Also speaking, Pastor Rowland Sanda from Southern Kaduna said the Christian delegation attended the celebration to promote peace, religious tolerance, and mutual understanding for lasting unity.
“This is not the first time we are visiting the mosque with a team of pastors to strengthen relationships with Muslim clerics and promote peace and religious harmony,” he said.
Other Christian leaders, including John and Moses, with madam Grace also emphasized the importance of promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among different faith groups.
In his remarks, the Chief Imam of the Central Mosque, Sheikh Habib Umar Mahmood, expressed appreciation to Pastor Buru and his team for their consistent support and commitment to peacebuilding.
“You are truly unique, and may God bless you abundantly,” the Chief Imam said while calling on Nigerians to continue praying for peace and unity in the country.
Similarly, Mallam Sunusi Surajo, a member of the Eid praying ground committee, commended Kaduna State for promoting religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, praying for similar unity across the 36 states of Nigeria.
He praised Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru for his continued efforts in promoting interreligious harmony through his annual visits to Eid grounds during Sallah celebrations.
Mallam Surajo also called on the Federal Government to consider Pastor Buru for a national award in recognition of his commitment to promoting peace, unity, and religious tolerance in Nigeria.
Daniel Karlmax
