Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has warned that the manipulation of religion to justify violence and intolerance is a distortion that must be challenged through knowledge, engagement, and moral leadership.
She said Islamic organisations had a vital role in promoting authentic understanding, supporting inclusive education, and empowering the youth with values of tolerance and coexistence to curb violent extremism.
Mrs Tinubu stated this at the opening of the International Islamic Conference on Security and Governance in West Africa and the Sahel, organised by ECOWAS and Jam’iyyatu Ansaridden, in Abuja yesterday.
Represented by the Minister of State for Education, Dr Suwaiba Said Ahmad, the First Lady said terrorism not only undermines peace and national security but also erodes the social and moral fabric of communities while disrupting access to education.
“Schools are attacked, teachers displaced, and learning halted, leaving behind a generation at risk of alienation, poverty, and radicalisation,” she said.
She stressed that the Federal Ministry of Education viewed terrorism not only as a security challenge but also as a developmental and educational concern.
“As we confront these threats, it is crucial to recognise that Islam, like all great faiths, stands for peace, justice, compassion, and knowledge,” she added.
The First Lady said the Ministry was promoting peace education, civic learning, and moral instruction as part of ongoing curriculum reforms, while expanding self-schooling in conflict-affected areas through community-based initiatives involving traditional and religious leaders.
In his remarks, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Amb. Abdul Fatau Masah, said terrorism had attempted to divide people along religious and ethnic lines, urging unity against the “common enemy.”
He emphasised the need to strengthen governance, uphold democracy, and promote social cohesion as foundations for sustainable peace in West Africa.
Masah also highlighted the importance of youth empowerment, education, and regional intelligence sharing to combat terrorism and organised crime.
On his part, the Chairman of the Conference Organising Committee, Sayyidi Muhammad Alqasim Yahaya, said Islamic organisations must unite to prevent radicalisation and promote peace.
He commended ECOWAS for creating a platform that encourages collaboration and dialogue to address violent extremism.
“This conference is a testament to the power of collective action.Together, we can build a culture of peace, tolerance, and coexistence, “he added.
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