Pastor Buru Recognises JNI Leader’s Contributions to Peace, Religious Tolerance

By Abubakar Abba, Kaduna

A Christian cleric and United Nations Peace Ambassador, Pastor Dr Yohanna Buru, has honoured the Murshid of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Kaduna State, Imam Hussaini Iliya, in recognition of his contributions to peacebuilding, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Pastor Buru presented the honour during a visit to the JNI Kaduna State Headquarters, where he commended the Islamic scholar for years of commitment to promoting peace, unity and mutual understanding between Muslims and Christians in northern Nigeria.

The General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, Gyagyi Villa, Kaduna South, said the visit was specifically organised to appreciate Imam Iliya’s efforts in strengthening relationships among different faith communities.

He recalled working with the Islamic scholar on various peacebuilding initiatives, including journeys across northern Nigeria and parts of Africa to promote love, unity and peaceful coexistence.

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According to him, the recognition was part of his efforts to celebrate individuals whose contributions to peace and harmony have positively impacted their communities.

Pastor Buru also commended JNI for its sustained efforts to promote peace, love and religious understanding in Kaduna State and beyond.

Responding on behalf of the recipient, Alhaji Balarabe Jigo, Chairman of the Committee Supervising the Activities of JNI in Kaduna State, described the recognition as timely and significant.

He said the honour extended to the Murshid was not merely a personal achievement but also an acknowledgement of the contributions of Muslims to peacebuilding and religious harmony across Nigeria and beyond.

Jigo also acknowledged Pastor Buru’s longstanding peacebuilding activities, describing the visit as further evidence of the Christian cleric’s commitment to strengthening interfaith relations and peaceful coexistence.

He expressed appreciation to Pastor Buru for recognising the contributions of Islamic scholars to peacebuilding and urged Nigerians to continue embracing unity, love and mutual understanding, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.