The Plateau State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and an Islamic organisation, the Qur’anic Believers Harmony for Peace Initiative, QBHI, have agreed to collaborate on an accord aimed at ending years of unrest and violence across the state.
The understanding was reached on Saturday when the QBHI Chairman, Sheikh Yahya Ibrahim Masussuka, visited CAN leaders in Jos to explore solutions to the protracted religious tensions and strengthen ties between Muslims and Christians in the state.
During the meeting, Masussuka, a well-known Islamic preacher in the state, expressed concern that many of the longstanding crises in Plateau are rooted in intolerance caused by misinformation and insufficient awareness.
He pointed out the severe toll of the recurring conflicts, including deaths, destruction of homes, places of worship, and severe disruption to economic life in the state.
“Plateau State which was once celebrated as the ‘Home of Peace and Tourism,’ has witnessed painful religious and ethnic crises over the years,” Sheikh Masussuka said during the visit.
“From Jos North to Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Wase, Bassa, and Shendam, among many, clashes fueled by intolerance, misinformation, political manipulation, and socio-economic deprivation have damaged inter-religious relations.
“Today, we are here not as Muslims or Christians, but as Nigerians bound by one destiny. Our peaceful coexistence is not an option but a divine arrangement and national necessity,” he stated.
Masussuka stressed that religious leaders in both faiths are best positioned to rebuild trust through dialogue, mediation, and consistent preaching, urging the government to stimulate industrial revival, expand employment opportunities, and invest in technical and vocational training to address youth restiveness.
“To achieve these, the government needs to strengthen the security architecture in the state, support community-based peacebuilding initiatives, and prioritise industrial restoration to reduce religious conflicts and youth radicalisation,” he added.
A CAN representative speaking for the Christian body affirmed that both Islam and Christianity demand tolerance, peaceful living, and respect for human value, referencing scriptural direction for support.
“We are grateful for this visit as it is timely and crucial towards promoting peace in the state especially as we head into the yuletide season,” the CAN leader said.
