Sanusi Urges Leaders to Combat Division and Hate Speech

Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi, the Emir of Kano, called on traditional and religious leaders to actively discourage division, extremism, and hate speech during an event in Abuja on Thursday. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation across ethnic and religious lines to foster understanding and build public trust.

Sanusi's remarks were made during the unveiling of the 2026 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey report, which aims to strengthen the role of religious and traditional institutions as agents of social cohesion. He noted that the current socio-economic and security challenges in Nigeria make this message particularly relevant.

Additionally, Ogaga Iket, the chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, and Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama also spoke on the need for traditional institutions to regain their influence and work alongside government bodies. The event highlighted the necessity for collective action to promote peace and coexistence in Nigeria's diverse society.