By John Bassey
Religion is an inseparable part of human life, providing Divine Guidance on how individuals relate to God, fellow humans, and the world around them. For many, religion is not just a belief but a deeply moral and spiritual practice. Understanding this, the administration of Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, Governor of Kebbi State, has remained committed to fostering unity and religious harmony throughout the state.
The government places high priority on supporting religious activities to create an atmosphere of mutual respect, tolerance, and social cohesion.
One of the most notable initiatives is the governor’s recent approval for the renovation and reconstruction of 100 mosques across Kebbi State. The objective is to ensure that worshippers have comfortable places for supplication, a decision widely applauded by the people of Kebbi.
During an inspection visit to four major Jumu’ah Mosques in Birnin Kebbi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, Engr. Imrana Ibn Usman, expressed satisfaction about the progress of the refurbishment exercise.
Usman said 40 of these mosques, designated for the five daily prayers, were located in Birnin Kebbi metropolis, while 60 others were spread across all the local government areas of the state, with three mosques in each area.
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He announced that the project would be completed by the end of the year.
Usman also highlighted the unprecedented level of support for religious communities under Governor Idris’s leadership, calling on the people to sustain prayers for the success of the administration.
“Governor Idris has been proactive in supporting both Islamic and Christian communities. His unwavering commitment to upholding religious obligations is evident through his numerous interventions. For instance, the Governor recently donated N50 million to the Tijjaniya Movement during its International Preaching Session in Birnin Kebbi. Similar support has been extended to the Izala Movement.
“The Governor’s generosity is also seen during major religious festivities, where financial assistance is provided to Muslims and Christians alike. Civil servants, religious organizations, and various social groups are beneficiaries of his benevolence during occasions such as Eid and Christmas.
“The Governor’s support to Kebbi State pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj exercise, was another significant achievement. The government provided welfare packages, logistic support, and financial assistance, a gesture that was praised by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the Kebbi State Government, through various ministries, departments and agencies, carried out numerous interventions to cushion the effect of the current economic situation. These include the distribution of grains and daily Ramadan feeding programs targeting 11,400 people, particularly vulnerable groups.
“In addition to creating the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the administration established several important boards to oversee community service delivery.
They include the Preaching Board and the Zakkat and Sadaqah Board, to facilitate the collection of the charity.
“Furthermore, the government sponsored the weddings of 300 couples, an initiative organized by the Governor’s wife, Hajiya Nafisa Nasir Idris, shouldering both the ceremony and the payment of dowries.
“Governor Idris’s commitment to inclusivity is also reflected in his support for the Christian community. He has interacted with Christian leaders and promoted interfaith dialogue, aimed at fostering peace and understanding among different faiths,” said Usman.
According to Hussaini Bara Bauta, the State Secretary of the Christian Pilgrims Committee, the Governor has shown immense support to Christians in the state through appointments, financial aid, and welfare packages.
Bauta also mentioned that a proposal is before the Governor for sponsorship of Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem and construction of a cemetery for Christians in Kebbi.
“These actions demonstrate Governor Idris’s dedication to promoting religious harmony and peace in all sections of the state.
“Governor Nasir Idris’s administration has made significant contributions to religious activities, fostering an atmosphere of tolerance, harmony, and social welfare for adherents of all faiths in Kebbi State,” he said.
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