Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and the protection of the rights of all citizens to freely practice their faiths without discrimination.
This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday.
The Governor made the declaration while receiving the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Professor Nazila Ghanea, who led a delegation on an official visit to Kano State as part of her nationwide assessment of issues relating to freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Farouk Ibrahim, Governor Yusuf welcomed the delegation and emphasized Kano’s reputation as a state where people of different religious backgrounds have lived side by side in peace, mutual respect and understanding.
He noted that the administration has continued to support policies and institutions that strengthen social harmony, uphold justice and protect the constitutional rights of all residents regardless of their religious affiliation.
Governor Yusuf stated that Kano remains committed to fostering dialogue among religious communities and addressing emerging challenges through lawful and inclusive mechanisms that promote peace and stability.
He explained that the state government recognizes the important role of traditional institutions, religious leaders and community stakeholders in sustaining harmony and preventing tensions that could threaten peaceful coexistence.
The Governor further assured the UN delegation of the state’s readiness to cooperate with national and international bodies working to advance human rights, religious freedom and respect for diversity.
Speaking during the engagement, Professor Ghanea said her visit was aimed at examining the situation of freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria, including constitutional and institutional safeguards, challenges faced by religious communities, the role of traditional practices and efforts being made to address religious discrimination and tensions where they exist.
The delegation held discussions with senior government officials and other stakeholders on measures being implemented to strengthen interfaith understanding, protect fundamental freedoms and promote peaceful relations among communities.
Governor Yusuf thanked the United Nations Human Rights Council for choosing Kano as one of the states to be visited and reiterated his administration’s determination to preserve the state’s legacy of religious tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence.
