.…says Islam offers solutions to socio-economic challenges confronting Northern Nigeria
By Fatimatu bint Muktar
Dr. Taufiq Abubakar Hussaini, an Associate Professor of Islamic Modern Development and Director of the Centre for Islamic Civilization and Interfaith Dialogue, Bayero University Kano, has emphasized the significance of Islamic civilization and interfaith dialogue in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria.
According to Dr. Taufiq, Islamic civilization offers a wealth of solutions to the economic, social, and security challenges confronting modern Muslim communities in Northern Nigeria.
He noted that Islamic civilization, with its rich literary and islamic cultural heritage, provides a solution for promoting peace, social justice, and good Islamic sultanate governance.
Dr. Taufiq also highlighted the importance of interfaith dialogue in fostering and promoting peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.
He emphasized that both Islam and Christianity promote peace, social justice, and good character, and that interfaith dialogue can help to build bridges of understanding and tolerance.
“We believe that by engaging in interfaith dialogue, we can promote a culture of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect,” the don said.
He added: “Let the Christians do their Christianity and Muslims do their Islam. Let’s live in a peaceful situation, so that we can forge ahead and develop our economy and a very serene society.”
The Centre for Islamic Civilization and Interfaith Dialogue, established in 2015, has been at the forefront of promoting Islamic civilization and interfaith dialogue in Nigeria.
It has organized several Islamic authentic public lectures, workshops, and conferences, featuring scholars and Islamic experts from around the world.
Dr. Taufiq identified the Islamic culture of honesty and trustworthiness as one of the key aspects of Islamic civilization that needs to be revived today.
He cited examples from Islamic literature and history, highlighting the importance of righteousness and virtuous living.
Dr. Taufiq emphasized the need for Nigerians to tap into the rich Islamic cultural and literary heritage of Islamic civilization, and to engage in interfaith dialogue to promote peace, tolerance, and mutual respect.