The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has commended the Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, for reintroducing the teaching of Christian Religious Studies (CRS) in primary and secondary schools across the state.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, and issued under the leadership of its President-General, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the NSCIA described the move as “an act of justice, fairness and inclusivity” consistent with Islamic principles.
“The reintroduction of Christian Religious Studies in Katsina schools is worthy of commendation, especially as it conforms to the Islamic principles of equity, fairness and justice,” the statement read.
The Council recalled that Islam forbids persecution of minorities and stressed that the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), during the early years of Islamic leadership, emphasized the protection of minority rights, particularly in matters of belief and worship.
While expressing strong support for the teaching of CRS 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-West states, where Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) is not accommodated, to emulate Governor Radda’s example.
The statement cited the case of Rivers State University, where Muslim students and staff have allegedly been denied the right to gather for daily prayers. According to the NSCIA, despite favourable court judgments at both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, the Rivers State Government pursued an appeal to the Supreme Court, which has yet to be heard.
“The case of Rivers State University sums up the persecution of Muslims in Southern Nigeria,” the Council stated, stressing that governance must reflect justice, equity and pluralism.
The NSCIA maintained that Nigeria’s progress and unity depend on political leaders’ commitment to fairness and inclusivity. “Governor Radda’s action offers a model that should be embraced nationwide,” the statement added.