Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Yakub Yahya, has inaugurated a Muslim-Christian committee aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding and interfaith cooperation in Katsina State.
The committee, officially named the Katsina Muslim-Christian Committee for Unity and Mutual Understanding, was inaugurated during a ceremony held on Tuesday, corresponding to 16 Zul-Hijjah 1447 AH and July 2, 2026.
Speaking at the event, Sheikh Yakub said the initiative was established to strengthen harmony among residents of the state, encourage dialogue between adherents of Islam and Christianity, and provide peaceful mechanisms for resolving issues that could threaten communal peace.
As part of the committee's interim leadership arrangement, the cleric nominated Dr. Daniel Musa Dan-Ladi, Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Katsina State, and Umar Nasir to oversee the committee's affairs pending the emergence of substantive executives.
The committee comprises representatives from various Islamic groups and schools of thought, including Shi’a, Tijjaniyya, Qadiriyya, Ahlul Qur’an and Izala organisations, as well as leaders of different Christian denominations within Katsina metropolis.
Sheikh Yakub urged members of the committee to adopt a long-term vision in carrying out their responsibilities and to engage traditional and community leaders, including district heads and ward leaders, in order to secure broader support for the initiative.
He also encouraged the committee to undertake humanitarian activities such as visits to hospitals, support for vulnerable households, and interventions aimed at assisting inmates imprisoned over inability to pay fines. He further advised members to utilise festive periods such as Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Kabir to promote acts of charity and community service.
The cleric stressed the importance of sincerity, God-consciousness and selfless service in the discharge of the committee's duties, describing the initiative as a significant undertaking with the potential to foster unity and strengthen social cohesion across the state.
According to him, respect for differing opinions, tolerance and cooperation among members would be critical to the committee's success.
He expressed optimism that the committee would make meaningful contributions towards peacebuilding, religious understanding and community development in Katsina State.
