We’re one family under God — Christian clerics celebrate Islamic New Year with messages of peace

By Ahmad Ali Usman, Kafanchan

Christian leaders in Northern Nigeria have extended warm felicitations to Muslims around the world as they mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, Hijri 1447, urging prayers for peace, unity, and national healing.

Speaking in Kaduna on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Pastor (Dr.) Yohanna Buru, General Overseer of Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, led the goodwill gesture, visiting Muslim scholars and communities to strengthen interfaith ties.

“It has become a tradition to send thousands of peace messages every Islamic New Year through social media and direct engagement,” Pastor Buru said. “We are one family under God. Nigerians must demonstrate tolerance, forgiveness, and mutual respect to overcome the challenges of division,” he said.

He also appealed to the Federal Government to consider declaring 1st Muharram a national public holiday, to allow Muslims to mark the occasion with joy and reflection.

The Islamic New Year, which falls on June 26 this year (subject to moon sighting), commemorates the historic migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Mecca to Medina—a pivotal event in Islamic history.

In a similar message, Pastor George John from southern Kaduna called for an end to religious conflicts and prayed for global peace, particularly urging for resolution in the Iran-Israel conflict. “It’s a time to reflect on our common humanity,” he said.

In response, Muslim scholar Mallam Gambo Barnawa expressed appreciation for the show of solidarity. “The Islamic New Year celebration is not just for Muslims—it is a reminder to all of humanity of the value of faith, sacrifice, and unity,” he said.

The Christian clerics’ gesture has been widely welcomed by both Christian and Muslim communities in Kaduna and beyond, as a symbol of hope in strengthening interfaith harmony.