Vice President Yemi Osinbajo says religion must be used to help citizens to live better lives.
Osinbajo, according to a statement Sunday by his spokesman, Laolu Akande, said this at the State House in Abuja Saturday evening while receiving the Senegal-based Grand Khalifa of Tijjaniya Movement, Worldwide, Sheikh Muhammadu Mahi Ibrahim Niass.
He said, “There are many nations of the world that have benefitted from the impact of religion both spiritually and physically.
“So, we must use religion in our countries (in Africa) to help our people to live better lives because, in other parts of the world, leaders of faith have used religion to better the lives of the people”.
He also stressed the need for leaders of faith to close ranks for the purpose using religion to address emerging challenges in the society.
“No matter what the situation may be, we, in Africa, must be able to sit together and talk. We must never allow situations where we cannot sit together.
“With what is going on across the world, people of faith must continue to emphasize that both major religions (Islam and Christianity) promote peace and we must allow our people to practise whatever religion they want to practice.”
He praised the leader of the group and commended the Tijjaniya Movement for its progressive ideals and compassion for the needs of the people.
He described President Muhammadu Buhari as a model who accommodates people of different religious backgrounds.
“President Buhari is a serious Muslim and I am a pastor, both of us have worked together for about 7 years, we have not had any issues,” Osinbajo said.
Sheikh Niass, who spoke in French with interpretation by a spokesman, was quoted to have thanked Osinbajo for the opportunity to meet with him and his delegation.
“The vice president is a great personality with an exceptional character, standing on two feet: one as a political leader concerned about the progress of his people and the second, as a man of God.
“Africa needs a person of your nature with very strong background in religion and politics. I pray that the Almighty Allah will upgrade you and enable you achieve your desires and aspirations because, like I said, not only Nigeria but Africa will benefit from your leadership qualities.”
He thanked Buhari for his support to the group, praying for his safety and Nigeria to overcome its challenges.
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