CAN President Advocates for Religious Literacy in Nigeria

Rev. Daniel Okoh, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, described religious literacy as an essential tool for national cohesion in Nigeria, a country characterized by ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity. Speaking at the first triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, Okoh highlighted that religious literacy should not be limited to academic understanding of doctrines and rituals but should cultivate awareness and respect for different beliefs and practices.

He stressed that misunderstandings and manipulation of religion often lead to division and conflict. Okoh called for mainstreaming religious literacy in schools and public discourse to counter misinformation and hate speech.

He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among faith communities, civil society groups, and the media to promote peace and unity. Sultan of Sokoto Sa'ad Abubakar III dismissed claims of a plan to Islamize Nigeria, affirming that Muslims do not intend to harm or diminish the Christian population in the country.