Muslim Association Sensitises Bauchi Women On Dangers, Early Signs Of Extremism

Women in Bauchi State have been trained and sensitised on the dangers of extremism and the importance of identifying its early warning signs, particularly among children and adolescents.

The training organised by the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Bauchi State chapter, also equipped participants with information on the nature of extremism, factors that contribute to its spread and strategies for preventing extremist tendencies in their communities.

The association urged the participants to share the knowledge acquired with other women to strengthen community efforts towards preventing extremism and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Speaking during the training yesterday, the chairperson of FOMWAN in Bauchi State, Hajiya Lami Hassan, said women were often among the victims of extremism, particularly during conflicts, making it important to equip them with the knowledge and skills to recognise its early signs.

She explained that extremism was not limited to religion but could manifest in different aspects of human beliefs and activities.

Hassan also identified upbringing and environmental influences as some of the factors that could contribute to the development of extremist tendencies.

She expressed the hope that participants would put the knowledge acquired into practice and extend the sensitisation to other women in their respective communities.

In his presentation, a representative of Darul Andalus, Nigeria, Alhaji Hassan Lawal, emphasised the importance of interfaith dialogue in promoting mutual understanding, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

He described interfaith dialogue as an avenue for people of different religious backgrounds to understand, respect and accommodate one another despite their differences.

According to him, the training was designed to promote tolerance and strengthen peaceful coexistence among people, irrespective of their religious affiliations.

“Whether Christian, Muslim or adherent of traditional religion, we are all part of the same society. Although we have different religious beliefs and perspectives, our differences should unite us rather than divide us.

“We must, therefore, work together to promote unity and peaceful coexistence in the country,” he said.