The Islamic Forum of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations, review economic policies and ensure fairness in federal appointments to address challenges confronting Muslims and Nigerians at large.
The call was contained in a communiqué signed by Malam Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim, Malam Salisu Uba Sani and Malam Ado Kassim, who served as rapporteurs at the end of a one-day Islamic summit held at the forum’s National Headquarters, Farm Centre, Kano, on Saturday.
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The summit, themed “Dilemma of Muslims in Nigeria: The Way Forward,” brought together Islamic scholars, professionals and other stakeholders to examine issues affecting Muslim communities and national development.
Participants expressed concern over persistent insecurity in several parts of the country, particularly Zamfara, Borno, Katsina, Niger, Sokoto and Kebbi states, and urged the government to improve intelligence gathering and take more effective measures to protect lives and property.
The summit also called for a review of economic policies, including fuel subsidy removal, exchange-rate adjustments, tax reforms and high electricity tariffs, which it said had worsened hardship among vulnerable households.
On federal appointments, the forum expressed concern over alleged disparities in recruitment, postings and appointments across key institutions, including the armed forces, security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
It urged relevant authorities to uphold transparency, inclusiveness and the constitutional principle of federal character in appointments and recruitment processes.
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The communiqué also condemned reported cases of religious discrimination against Muslim women and girls over the wearing of hijab, particularly in some schools and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps, and called for the protection of religious freedom in accordance with applicable laws.
To address poverty and unemployment, the summit urged mosques and Islamic organisations to establish skills acquisition centres, support entrepreneurship and facilitate access to interest-free microfinance where feasible.
It further advocated the strengthening of Islamic social finance mechanisms, particularly Waqf, as tools for poverty reduction, community welfare and sustainable economic development.
The forum called on Muslim scholars, professionals and organisations to promote unity, peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement with government institutions, while pursuing grievances through lawful and peaceful means.
It also urged Muslim communities to develop strategic human capital programmes focusing on education, healthcare, religious knowledge and other critical sectors.
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The summit, chaired by Alhaji Gidado Mukhtar, featured presentations by Professor Suleiman Abdullahi Karwai of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Dr Usman Bugaje, among other scholars.
Participants reaffirmed the importance of responsible leadership, accountability, mutual respect and cooperation among Islamic organisations in promoting national unity and sustainable development.