Kaduna Muslim, Christian leaders preach peaceful coexistence at ECWA event

To promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the state, Muslim religious and traditional leaders attended a special worship service at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Lemu Road, in Kaduna South Local Government of Kaduna State. Specifically, the event was marked by an atmosphere of reflection and mutual respect as leaders underscored the need to build bridges of trust and understanding amidst diversity. The Senior Pastor of ECWA Gospel Church, Rev. Joshua Nda Anyam, opened the service by reminding congregants of the enduring differences between communities but urged that these should never become barriers to peace. “Whether we like it or not, there will continue to be differences between us. However, we must endeavor to maintain open doors of interaction to douse relational tensions and build bridges of trust, understanding, and respect among us,” he said. Rev. Anyam called for sensitivity and empathy toward one another, emphasizing the importance of embracing the golden rule from Christendom: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,” citing Matthew 7:12. He stressed that this universal principle should guide all interactions, encouraging all faith adherents to pursue values that strengthen their oneness as a people under one God. The pastor also sounded a strong note of condemnation against those who exploit religious differences for selfish interests, warning that such actions undermine the fragile peace enjoyed by communities. A significant portion of his message focused on the urgent need to jointly condemn acts of desecration against religious scriptures, including the Glorious Quran and the Holy Bible, which are held in high esteem by Muslims and Christians alike. “The desecration of our religious texts is unacceptable and must not be condoned anywhere,” Rev. Anyam declared, calling on religious leaders and followers to impress upon government authorities their responsibility to protect lives, properties, and ensure good governance. He concluded by urging all present to condemn unequivocally any acts of violence, killings, or destruction, regardless of which community is affected, and prayed for safe journeys back to their destinations, closing with a heartfelt “Shalom” in the spirit of peace.

Earlier in his goodwill message, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Residents’ Communities, Ayokunle Adebayo, said, “Today’s Friends Day celebration here at ECWA Church, Lemu Road, is more than a religious event, it is a symbol of hope—of what Kaduna State and Nigeria can truly become when we rise above our differences and come together as one people under God. “This gathering, where Christian worshippers and Muslim faithful sit together in mutual respect and fellowship, is a bold and beautiful act of peacebuilding. It sends a powerful message to our state, our nation, and the world that faith should unite us, not divide us.” He expressed his heartfelt commendation to the leadership of ECWA Church for opening their hearts and doors to their Muslim neighbours, adding that their willingness to promote understanding and coexistence is commendable. “I also deeply appreciate the Panteka community and the Muslim residents who, for decades, have peacefully lived side-by-side with this church. You all represent the true Kaduna spirit—resilient, diverse, and peaceful.” He said that since his assumption of office, his administration has championed a vision of inclusive and people-focused governance. “Our administration does not see religion, tribe, or background. It sees people—people with hopes, needs, and rights. We have worked tirelessly to build a Kaduna that belongs to everyone,” he stressed. In another goodwill message, Kaduna State Deputy Speaker, Hon. Henry Magaji Danjuma, also commended the church for such a bold initiative and urged the church to sustain it. In his message, Rev. (Dr.) Yunusa Nmadu, who initiated the Friends Day when he served as Senior Pastor of the church about 10 years ago, harped on the fact that only God can give genuine rest, while calling all and sundry to seek God in all things. Also, the Hakimi of Tudun Wada, Represented by Adamu Muhammad, The Chief Imam of Tuduun Wada, and the chairman of Panteka, represented by Adamu Nasiru, most speakers, all underscored the imported the import of peace and religious Tolerance.

The worship service, attended by prominent Muslim leaders alongside Christian clergy, highlighted the critical role of faith communities in fostering peaceful coexistence and reiterated a shared commitment to unity in Kaduna State and beyond.