The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has lauded Katsina State Governor, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, for reintroducing Christian Religious Studies (CRS) into the curriculum of primary and secondary schools across the state.
In a statement signed by the Secretary-General, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Council described the governor’s decision as an exemplary act of fairness, inclusivity, and justice—values deeply rooted in the principles of Islam.
“The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) commends the acts of justice, fairness and inclusivity—all of which mirror the eternal precepts of Islam—exhibited by His Excellency, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, through the reintroduction of Christian Religious Studies in primary and secondary schools across the state,” the statement read. “This development is worthy of commendation, especially as it conforms, once again, to the Islamic principles of equity, fairness, and justice.
The NSCIA noted that Islam has always upheld the rights of minorities, with Prophet Muhammad (SAW) stressing the importance of protecting freedom of belief and worship. It emphasized that the governor’s move is in line with this tradition and a demonstration of true leadership.
However, the Council called on other state governments, especially in the South East, South South, and some South Western states, to reciprocate by allowing Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) to be taught where it is currently prohibited.
Citing the example of Rivers State University, where Muslim students and staff were denied the right to pray on campus despite winning legal battles at both the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal, the NSCIA condemned what it described as ongoing persecution of Muslims in some parts of the country. The case, now before the Supreme Court since 2018, remains unresolved.
The statement stressed that Nigeria’s unity and development depend largely on the willingness of leaders to embrace inclusivity and fairness in governance.
“There is no gainsaying the fact that the progress, development and advancement of the Nigerian nation are, and shall continue to be ineluctably linked to the preparedness of the political class to eschew injustice, partisanship and arrant abhorrence for pluralism in state governance,” the Council declared. “Governor Radda’s action is a categorical example that others must follow.”
The NSCIA therefore urged political leaders across the country to adopt policies that guarantee equal treatment for all faith groups, insisting that only through justice and mutual respect can Nigeria achieve lasting peace and progress.
