The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has commended the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, for his recent decision to reintroduce Christian Religious Studies in primary and secondary schools across the state.
According to the Council, this action reflects justice, fairness, and inclusivity values that are consistent with the eternal precepts of Islam. The NSCIA described Governor Radda’s decision as exemplary, noting that it aligns with Islamic principles of equity and justice.
The body recalled that Islam unequivocally condemns the persecution of minorities, citing the example of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) who, during the early days of Islam, emphasized the protection of minority rights and ensured their freedom of belief and worship.
While throwing its weight behind the teaching of Christian Religious Studies in Muslim-majority states, the NSCIA called for reciprocity in Christian-dominated parts of the federation. It urged governors in the South East, South South, and some South Western states where Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) is reportedly prohibited to emulate the fairness demonstrated by Governor Radda.
The Council also drew attention to the case of Muslim students and staff of Rivers State University who were denied the right to congregate for prayers on campus. Although the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt (Suit No: FHC/PH/150/2012) and subsequently the Court of Appeal (Appeal No: CA/PH/614/2013) ruled in their favour, the Rivers State Government appealed to the Supreme Court (Appeal No: SC/055/2018), where the matter remains pending.
The NSCIA stressed that Nigeria’s growth and development are inextricably tied to the political class’s willingness to embrace justice, fairness, and pluralism in governance. Governor Radda’s decision, it noted, is a shining example of leadership that prioritizes inclusivity and national unity
