The Northern Christian Religious Leaders Assembly (NOCRELA) has called on the Federal Government to appoint Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) on Christian and Muslim Religious Affairs, saying the move would promote national unity, strengthen interfaith relations and improve grassroots engagement.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the association’s Secretary-General, Rev. Simon Dolly-Kif, said the appointments would help bridge communication gaps between government and religious communities while fostering peace and trust across the country.
According to him, the proposal goes beyond politics and should be seen as a strategic step toward addressing some of Nigeria’s pressing social challenges.
“At a time when economic pressures, insecurity and social tensions are testing the resilience of families across Nigeria, such appointments are far more than mere political gestures,” he said.
‘Religious Leaders Reach Where Government Cannot’
Dolly-Kif noted that churches and mosques often provide essential services in communities where government presence is limited.
According to him, many faith-based organisations operate schools, health centres and welfare programmes, making them valuable partners in national development.
“Religious leaders command moral authority and have deep reach into communities where formal government structures are thin. Engaging them through credible advisers can enhance public trust,” he stated.
Proposed Roles for the Advisers
The cleric explained that the proposed presidential aides would advise the government on policies affecting religious communities and help strengthen cooperation between different faith groups.
He said they would also coordinate interfaith dialogue, support public health and poverty reduction programmes through religious organisations, and serve as early-warning channels to prevent religious conflicts.
“They will facilitate ongoing interfaith dialogue to deepen tolerance and mutual respect… and identify and defuse local religious friction before it leads to violence,” Dolly-Kif said.
Call for Inclusive Governance
NOCRELA maintained that involving major faith communities more closely in governance would strengthen national unity and contribute to lasting peace.
“As Nigeria strives for peace, justice and sustainable development, governance that recognises and engages all major faith communities will reinforce our shared commitment to a prosperous nation,” he added.
The group urged the Federal Government to consider the proposal as part of broader efforts to promote social cohesion and nation-building.
Source: NAN.
