By Ibrahim Abdulmalik
Al-Habibyyah Islamic society in its usual humanitarian efforts, provides iftar for about 2,500 fasting Muslims throughout the month of Ramadan at its Mosque located in Guzape district of Abuja.
In a show of interfaith harmony, Islamic society invited the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Dr Daniel Okoh to the Food Bank event on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at its mosque located at Guzape in Abuja for Iftar.
Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah, Sheikh Fu’ad Adeyemi in his address, said humanity preceded religion as people were first humans before becoming Christians or Muslims whether at birth or through conversion.
He noted that the Ramadan Food Bank program had been in existence for almost 18 years and it has won international awards. The Iftar, according to him, was not meant for Muslims alone as the guesture is extended to people of other faiths.
Sheikh Adeyemi acknowledged that CAN provided support for todays iftar adding that “We might not agree in everything but we should understand the things that join us together as human beings and as people that God has destined to be in the same environment and that’s why we’re doing all we’re doing” to appreciate human diversity.
CAN President, Archbishop Dr. Daniel Okoh in his speech, recalled how he goes to the mosque to distribute food and even money, pointing out that “the way we understand life is that we are we’re first of all humans who are created in the Image of God” adding that God has given us the responsibility to take care of this world and make this world a better place for everyone.
He emphasized the need for people to see the leaders of our various religions in Nigeria working together and with this, there’ll be no room for suspicion or for hate.
Being in the mosque he said, was an opportunity to learn and to share. He urged every Nigerian to learn a few things about other religions so that we could grow with mutual respect and understanding, thereby building a society that is peaceful and safe for everyone.
On his entourage were the Secretary General of CAN, Apostle Samson Fatokun and Director of Ecumenical and Interfaith Affairs, Venerable Dr. Princewill Ireoba.
The Chairman of FCT Council of Imams, Sheikh Tajudeen Adigun in his remark, stressed that the relationship between Muslims and Christians is a solid one and it’s unfortunate that those who doesn’t go through the content of the Qur’an are the ones that will see the disparity and at times cause problem and crises. He quoted a verse of the Holy Qur’an that says the idol worshippers and the Jews are hard on the Muslims but the Christians very close and in love with the Muslims.
