Group Raises Alarm Over Islamophobia In Nigeria
Group Marks Global Day with Warning
THE Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has warned that rising Islamophobia poses a potential threat to Nigeria’s social cohesion, calling for coordinated action to address religious discrimination and promote tolerance.
In a statement marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the organisation said growing prejudice against Muslims could undermine peace in a country widely known for its religious diversity.
MPAC noted that globally, Muslim communities continue to face discrimination, exclusion and heightened surveillance, trends that it said should concern policymakers and civil society groups.
Warning on National Unity
According to MPAC Executive Chairman Disu Kamor, Islamophobia should not be dismissed as an isolated problem but recognised as a societal challenge with implications for national unity.
He warned that prejudice against Muslims can fuel division and weaken trust among citizens.
“Islamophobia is a societal illness threatening our internal peace and coexistence,” Kamor said.
The group added that while Nigeria has historically maintained a delicate balance between its religious communities, negative narratives and stereotyping could gradually disrupt that balance if not addressed.
Strengthening Legal and Institutional Responses
MPAC urged government officials to reinforce legal protections against hate crimes and ensure that existing anti-discrimination laws are effectively enforced.
The organisation also stressed the importance of fair representation of different religious groups in public institutions as a way of promoting inclusion and national cohesion.
According to the group, inclusive governance structures help strengthen citizens’ confidence in public institutions and reduce perceptions of bias.
Responsible Reporting and Education
The organisation called on the media to play a constructive role in addressing Islamophobia by avoiding stereotypes and presenting balanced coverage of issues affecting Muslim communities.
MPAC said inaccurate or sensational reporting can deepen social tensions and reinforce harmful misconceptions.
It also encouraged educational institutions to incorporate lessons on religious diversity into school curricula, arguing that early exposure to interfaith dialogue can reduce prejudice among young people.
By promoting tolerance in schools, the group said, Nigeria can nurture a generation more committed to peaceful coexistence.
Collective Responsibility
MPAC emphasised that combating Islamophobia requires participation from all segments of society.
Citizens, the organisation said, should challenge discriminatory language or behaviour whenever it appears, whether in everyday conversations, on social media or within institutional settings.
The group also encouraged Muslims across Nigeria to remain active participants in public life and continue highlighting the positive contributions of Islam to national development.
Dialogue for Lasting Peace
Kamor concluded by stressing that sustained dialogue between religious communities remains essential for addressing misunderstandings and building trust.
He called on religious leaders, civil society organisations and government agencies to work together to promote respect for religious diversity.
According to MPAC, protecting the dignity and rights of citizens regardless of faith is critical to Nigeria’s stability and long-term progress.
Strengthening interfaith cooperation, the organisation added, will help ensure that Nigeria’s diversity remains a source of strength rather than division.
