Kano Committed To Religious Tolerance, Peaceful Coexistence — Gov Yusuf

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and protecting citizens’ rights to practice their faith without discrimination.

The governor stated this during a meeting with the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Professor Nazila Ghanea, who led a delegation on an official visit to the state as part of an assessment of religious freedom in Nigeria.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, Governor Yusuf said Kano has remained a state where people of different religious backgrounds coexist peacefully through mutual respect and understanding.

He said the state government would continue to support policies and institutions that promote social harmony, justice, and the protection of residents’ constitutional rights, irrespective of religious affiliation.

Yusuf also stressed the importance of dialogue among religious communities and the need to address challenges through lawful, inclusive approaches that strengthen peace and stability.

According to him, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and community stakeholders have continued to play key roles in maintaining harmony and preventing conflicts.

The governor assured the UN delegation of Kano State’s readiness to collaborate with national and international organisations committed to advancing human rights, religious freedom and respect for diversity.

Speaking during the engagement, Professor Ghanea said the visit was aimed at examining the state of freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria, including existing safeguards, challenges faced by religious communities, and measures to tackle discrimination and tensions.

She added that the delegation would engage relevant stakeholders on efforts to promote interfaith understanding and peaceful relations among communities.

Governor Yusuf appreciated the United Nations Human Rights Council for selecting Kano among the states visited and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to preserve the state’s legacy of unity and peaceful coexistence.