In anticipation of the United Nations International Day of Friendship on July 30, 2024, Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru has launched a week-long initiative, visiting Muslim scholars in northern Nigeria. This effort aims to foster a stronger, more cordial relationship between Christian and Muslim faith leaders and to enhance interfaith ties.
Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru highlighted that the United Nations has given them a valuable opportunity to strengthen their good relations, which will help promote peaceful coexistence and enhance interfaith connections with other faith-based organizations in the country.
These remarks were made during a visit from the Chief Imam of Udawa Central Mosque and key stakeholder of Jama’atul Nasril Islam Kaduna, Imam Ilyasu Udawa, to Pastor Buru’s home. This visit aimed to reinforce the positive relationship between Christians and Muslims in the state.
{he said he has already started visiting some of muslim friend who are also scholars, and the aims is to boost their relationship for peace and unity and to teach their followers the importance of living together in peace and unity
The Christian cleric announced his plan to spend the week visiting various locations, meeting with Imams and other faith leaders to promote peace and unity. He emphasized that the International United Nations Friendship Week provides an excellent platform for Muslims and Christians to engage in dialogue, offering numerous solutions to enhance understanding among followers of different faiths in the state.
Pastor Buru called on both Muslim and Christian leaders to use the Friendship Week to preach peace and harmony, and to offer special prayers for the Nigerian Armed Forces on peace missions, both at home and abroad. He also pledged to use the week to campaign for peace and love among Muslim Imams, educating their followers on the importance of living in harmony regardless of tribe, ethnicity, culture, religion, region, or socio-political background.
Imam Husaine Iliyasu (Morshid) expressed his delight at the warm reception he received at Pastor Buru’s home in Sabon Tasha, Kaduna South. He emphasized the significance of the United Nations-designated day in fostering friendship and noted that Pastor Buru has been a long-time friend.
Imam Iliyasu also called on the youth to reject violence and drug abuse, encouraging them to engage in sports and creative activities instead.
