In a statement made available to the press by the Co-Director, Mr. Samson Auta, the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna, extends its heartfelt felicitations to Muslim faithful on this significant occasion.

For over three decades, the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna, has championed bridge-building, dialogue, reconciliation, and non-violent engagement among diverse faith communities.

We therefore view this sacred occasion not only as a moment of spiritual joy and reflection, but also as an urgent call to action towards building a more peaceful, just, and harmonious society.

The life, character, and exemplary leadership of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) remain an enduring source of guidance and inspiration for humanity. He demonstrated profound compassion, patience, justice, equity, and a deep commitment to social harmony, even in the face of deeply rooted societal divisions.

In our beloved nation, Nigeria, with its rich tapestry of cultures, ethnicities, and religious beliefs, we are continually reminded that our greatest strength lies in our ability to live together in mutual respect, understanding, tolerance, and peace.

As we mark this year’s Maulud, IMC calls on all citizens, leaders, and people of faith to reflect deeply on the divine guidance contained in the Holy Qur’ān, particularly its teachings on how we relate with our neighbours, build bridges across differences, and reject hatred and discord.

“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.”

— Qur’an 49:13

The Qur’an further reminds us:

“And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; then the one between whom and you there is enmity [will become] as though he were a devoted friend.”

— Qur’an 41:34

As we celebrate this year’s Maulud, let us move beyond the rhetoric of festivities and translate the teachings and exemplary life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) into our daily actions. Let us reject prejudice, hate speech, intolerance, and violence; champion social justice and the protection of vulnerable members of society; and actively support security, reconciliation, and peaceful dialogue within our communities.

At this important moment in our nation’s history, we encourage religious leaders, political leaders, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and citizens to strengthen efforts that promote peaceful coexistence and build trust across religious and social divides.

May the blessings, peace, and enduring lessons of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) guide our hearts towards greater unity, compassion, justice, and peaceful coexistence.

May peace reign supreme in Kaduna State, Nigeria, and across the globe.

Eid Mubarak!