Prominent Christian Figures in Nigeria Construct Mosques to Strengthen Interfaith Bonds
In a significant move towards fostering religious harmony, several notable Christian personalities in Nigeria have taken the initiative to build mosques, promoting interfaith cooperation in Africa's most populous nation. This effort highlights a commitment to unity and mutual respect among diverse religious communities.
Primate Elijah Ayodele's Mosque Initiative in Lagos
Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, recently commissioned a mosque in Lagos, which he named after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's late mother, Abibatu Mogaji. The mosque, inaugurated on Tuesday, February 24, was attended by Muslim community members, clerics, and church followers. Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyalode-General of Lagos, expressed gratitude for the project, describing it as miraculous and appreciating Ayodele's recognition of her family's legacy.
Ayodele stated that the construction was a direct divine instruction he could not ignore, emphasizing that the mosque is a house of worship for God, similar to churches, with no personal interest in its operations.
Seyi Makinde's Contributions to Mosque Construction
Seyi Makinde, the Christian governor of Oyo State, has funded the construction of several mosques, including a private mosque at his residence known as the Omituntun Mosque. Built around 2013–2014, this facility allows his Muslim associates to practice their faith, demonstrating his support for religious inclusivity.
Bishop Stephen Mamza's Mosque for IDPs in Adamawa
Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza, a key member of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Adamawa State, constructed a mosque for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Sangere Margi area of Girei Local Government Area. In a 2021 interview with BBC Hausa, Mamza explained that the project, fully sponsored by his church, aims to strengthen ties between Muslims and Christians in the community, which has over 80 houses and includes a church, clinic, and school built by a German foundation.
Apostle Oluwole Awotuyi's Support in Kwara State
Senior Apostle Oluwole Awotuyi, founder of Tuyil Pharmaceuticals, has contributed to building mosques in Kwara State. While not widely publicized, his efforts reflect a broader trend of Christian leaders supporting Muslim worship spaces to enhance community cohesion.
Legacy of Interfaith Cooperation in Nigeria
These initiatives underscore a growing movement among Nigerian Christians to bridge religious divides through practical actions. By building mosques, these leaders not only provide places of worship for Muslims but also set a powerful example of tolerance and collaboration in a nation often marked by religious tensions.
Such efforts are complemented by other projects, like the ultra-modern mosque built in memory of late Yoruba actor Sisi Quadri, which further illustrates the communal spirit driving interfaith unity in Nigeria.
