The Nigeria’s Country Representative of Faith and Freedom Africa, Mr Felix Joseph Samari in a discussion with the Emir of Fika, His Royal Highness Dr. Muhammad Ibn Abali Muhammadu Idrisa during the visit at his palace in Potiskum, Yobe State.
By Samuel Clement
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony in Nigeria, Faith and Freedom Africa paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Fika, His Royal Highness Dr. Muhammad Ibn Abali Muhammadu Idrisa, at his palace in Potiskum, Yobe State.
The delegation was led by the Nigeria Country Representative of Faith and Freedom Africa, Mr. Felix Joseph Samari, who emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and preserving societal values across Nigeria’s diverse religious and ethnic communities.
Speaking during the engagement, Samari noted that traditional rulers remain key stakeholders in fostering unity and social cohesion, particularly in communities where religious and cultural diversity exists. He stressed that their influence and leadership are invaluable in advancing peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding among citizens.
Samari also informed the Emir about preparations for the forthcoming Traditional Rulers Interfaith Consultation on Freedom of Religion or Belief, scheduled to take place in Abuja. The consultation will bring together Christian, Muslim, and Traditional Religious leaders to discuss strategies for promoting religious freedom, tolerance, and national unity.
According to him, the visit to the Emir of Fika was both a mark of respect and an opportunity to seek his counsel and support for the initiative.
“The visit provided an opportunity to share the objectives of the consultation and to hear Your Royal Highness’ perspectives on peacebuilding and religious coexistence. We value your wisdom and leadership in promoting harmony among different communities,” Samari stated.
He further revealed plans for a broader engagement involving prominent traditional rulers in Abuja, as well as a Youth Summit in Gombe aimed at empowering young people to become ambassadors of peace and interfaith cooperation.
“We remain grateful to His Royal Highness for graciously receiving us and for the valuable insights shared during this important engagement,” he added.
In his remarks, the Emir of Fika expressed appreciation for the visit and commended the organization for its commitment to promoting peace and understanding among people of different faiths. He assured the delegation of his readiness to collaborate with stakeholders working towards national unity and social harmony.
The monarch reaffirmed the commitment of the traditional institution to serving all citizens fairly, regardless of their religious, ethnic, or tribal backgrounds, stressing that peace remains the foundation for sustainable development.
The meeting was attended by a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including Christian clergy, Muslim clerics, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Potiskum Chapter, traditional title holders, and other community leaders from the Fika Emirate.
Participants commended the Emir’s inclusive leadership style and unwavering dedication to fostering peaceful coexistence within the emirate and across Yobe State.
The engagement represents another significant step by Faith and Freedom Africa in advancing interfaith dialogue, strengthening collaboration among faith communities, and promoting an environment where human dignity, mutual respect, and freedom of religion or belief can thrive.
