The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged Nigerians to embrace the true meaning of jihad, clarifying that it is about self-improvement and not violence.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the public presentation of “Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum” — a book authored by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd.) — the Sultan condemned decades of misinterpretation that wrongly linked jihad to terrorism.
“Jihad simply means striving — striving to be a better Muslim, a better Christian, a better citizen, and a better human being. It is not about killing anyone. Islam abhors extremism, and no true Muslim can claim to follow the Prophet while embracing violence,” he declared.
He stressed that Islam, when properly understood, promotes peaceful coexistence, justice, accountability, and leadership responsibility — values that, he noted, have shaped Nigeria’s democratic development.
According to him, Islamic institutions such as mosques, scholars, and traditional councils have long played a stabilising role by mediating conflicts, guiding leaders, and educating citizens on tolerance and civic responsibility.
“Islam is not about seizing power; it is about ensuring good governance and fairness. Our democracy has benefitted from these principles rooted in both the Qur’an and democratic practice,” he added.
The Sultan further called for deeper interfaith dialogue, warning that Nigeria’s unity depends on genuine understanding between Christians and Muslims.
“If I know who you are, and you know who I am, we can live in peace. Understanding one another is the foundation of national security and stability,” he said.
He praised Gen. Irabor for his book, describing it as a timely contribution that documents the scars of insurgency while offering lessons for governance and national healing.
The book launch drew a distinguished audience including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of Defence, service chiefs, traditional rulers, senior military officers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Source:@ZagazolaMakama
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