MPAC Warns Islamophobia Poses Growing Threat to Nigeria's Unity
The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has issued a stark warning that Islamophobia is emerging as a significant concern in Nigeria, calling on government authorities, media outlets, and all citizens to take deliberate and proactive steps to confront religious prejudice and discrimination. In a statement released to commemorate the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the organization highlighted that Muslims in numerous regions worldwide continue to endure institutional discrimination, social exclusion, and unwarranted surveillance, with similar patterns increasingly observed in Nigeria.
Disguised Incidents and Societal Impact
MPAC noted that while Nigeria is widely recognized for its deep religious diversity, incidents of Islamophobia are often disguised as matters of national security or ethnic tension, complicating efforts to address them directly. According to Disu Kamor, the Executive Chairman of MPAC, Islamophobia must be acknowledged as a societal problem capable of undermining peace and coexistence if left unaddressed. He emphasized that prejudice against Muslims not only threatens national unity but also erodes trust among citizens, describing it as a societal illness that fuels division and weakens the foundations of a diverse society like Nigeria.
Calls for Action Across Sectors
The organization urged Nigerians to reject hate speech and religious profiling in both public and private spaces, stressing the importance of promoting interfaith understanding and mutual respect among the country's religious communities. MPAC called on government officials and policymakers to strengthen legal protections against hate crimes and ensure that anti-discrimination laws are effectively enforced. Additionally, it emphasized the necessity of fair representation of all religious groups in public institutions to foster a sense of belonging and national unity.
Media Responsibility and Educational Roles
Beyond governmental measures, MPAC appealed to media organizations to exercise responsibility when reporting on issues involving Muslim communities. It urged journalists and editors to avoid stereotypes and ensure balanced and accurate coverage of religious matters, warning that irresponsible reporting can deepen misunderstandings and reinforce negative perceptions about Muslims. Educational institutions were also encouraged to play a stronger role by incorporating inclusive curricula that promote interfaith understanding and create safe environments for students of diverse religious backgrounds, thereby helping to reduce prejudice and build stronger community relationships.
Public Engagement and Interfaith Dialogue
The group called on Nigerians of all faiths to challenge bigotry whenever it appears, whether in online discourse, everyday conversations, or institutional practices, noting that combating Islamophobia requires active participation from the wider public, not just government bodies. MPAC also urged Muslim communities across Nigeria to remain resilient and increase their civic engagement, participating in public life and amplifying narratives that reflect the diversity and contributions of Islam to Nigerian society, such as in education, commerce, and governance.
Long-Term Commitment and Collaboration
Kamor stressed the need for genuine dialogue between religious communities, asserting that sustained engagement can help address misunderstandings and reduce suspicion, with interfaith collaboration being one of the most effective tools for promoting peaceful coexistence in a multi-religious society. He concluded that combating Islamophobia demands long-term commitment, sustained education, courageous leadership, and active solidarity, calling on religious leaders, civil society groups, and government institutions to work together. MPAC maintained that strengthening interfaith cooperation and promoting respect for religious diversity are essential for building a more inclusive and peaceful Nigeria, where protecting the dignity and rights of every citizen, regardless of faith, is crucial for national progress and unity.
