By Aliyu Bala Gerengi, Gombe
In a powerful gesture of interfaith unity, Pastor (Dr.) Yohanna Buru, a prominent Christian cleric in Kaduna, joined thousands of Muslims at the Eid-il-Kabir prayer ground on June 5, 2025, to deliver a message of peace, love, and religious tolerance.
The event, held at Murtala Mohammed Square in Kaduna, brought together diverse religious leaders and communities, emphasizing the urgent need for national unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
Pastor Buru, who leads the Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, has become known for his commitment to interfaith dialogue. This year marks the fifth time he and his delegation of Christians have participated in Eid celebrations, showcasing a growing tradition of mutual respect and cooperation between faiths.
In his address, Pastor Buru congratulated Muslim leaders and faithful on the occasion of Eid, extending warm wishes to figures such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, and renowned scholars including Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, and Sheikh Ahmad Gumi.
He noted that similar gestures of goodwill are often returned during Christian celebrations such as Christmas, when many Muslims—Sunni, Shia, and Tijaniyya alike—join Christians in marking the birth of Jesus Christ.
“These gatherings offer vital opportunities for understanding and reconciliation,” Pastor Buru said. “We must remember that we are all one family under God. Whether Christian or Muslim, we worship the same Creator. Both the Qur’an and the Bible teach peace, and we are all descendants of Adam and Eve.”
He urged Nigerians, regardless of background or faith, to prioritize peace, love, and unity in building a stronger, more prosperous nation.
“Together, we can overcome our divisions and create a country where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued,” he added.
Other Christian leaders, including Reverend George John and some church members who attended the prayers.
he echoed Pastor Buru’s message, calling for stronger ties between Christians and Muslims.
“We came from different churches to stand in solidarity with our Muslim brothers,” Reverend George said.
Reverend Goerge prayed for lasting peace and stability, reiterating that “we are one family under God.”
Muslim leaders welcomed the visit with gratitude. Mallam Sunusi Surajo, a member of the prayer ground’s organizing committee, praised Kaduna State for leading by example in promoting religious harmony.
“We pray that this spirit of peace extends across all 36 states of Nigeria,” he said, commending the Christian delegation’s presence from Kaduna
The event also drew notable dignitaries, including Kaduna State Deputy Governor Hajiya Balaraba Sabuwa and former Governor Alhaji (Dr.) Ramalan Yero, along with top Islamic scholars and traditional leaders.
This year’s Eid-il-Kabir—commonly known as the Festival of Sacrifice—served not only as a moment of spiritual reflection but also as a platform to showcase the strength of Nigeria’s interfaith efforts. Pastor Buru’s continued presence stands as a beacon of hope in a region often affected by religious and ethnic tensions, highlighting the possibility of unity in diversity.
