By Ijeoma Olorunfemi
Sheikh Ahmad Dabbagh, an Islamic scholar and Founder of the World Peace Movement (WPM), has called on Nigerians to reclaim their culture of peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance.
Dabbagh,a Uk-based cleric, made the call at a news conference on Thursday in Abuja during his Africa Tour 2026 alongside a delegation of religious leaders from different parts of the world.
He said Nigeria was historically known for peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds, contrary to the violence, extremism and religious intolerance witnessed in some parts today.
According to him, Islam is spread through good character, teaching and service to humanity, and not through violence.
He cited the example of renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, whom he described as a leader that focused on moral teachings and helping people.
“During his time, Nigeria was very peaceful. There was no fighting between sects or religions.
“All these challenges came after the colonial era. Nigerians should reclaim the glory they once had when people of different religions lived together peacefully,” he said.
Dabbagh said that colonial powers gained dominance largely because of advancement in technology, knowledge and economic strength, urging Nigerians to focus on education, innovation and economic development.
“They should work towards knowledge, technology and economic growth.
“Faith is connected to love and the heart, and it can only truly be shared through love,” he said.
The cleric also urged followers of different religions to emulate the true teachings of their founders instead of using religion to justify violence or hatred.
Addressing Christians, he said believers should reflect on whether their actions aligned with the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly the command to love one’s neighbour.
He said that Muslims should equally reflect the peaceful and compassionate character of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), whom he described as caring for both humans and animals.
“If it is a Muslim, I refer them back to the Prophet Muhammad, who cared for all people. Even animals came to him for peace,” he said.
Dabbagh said the movement’s message of peace extended to all segments of society, including politicians, youths, prisoners and people involved in crime.
“For us, everyone is precious, from politicians to gangsters, from religious people to the youth, because we want goodness and peace for all.
“Many people who are in prison do not want to be there, but they lack opportunity and guidance. Peace is essential for everyone just like blood and oxygen,” he said.
Earlier, Sheikh Mohammed Obe, a member of the delegation, said the group first visited Nigeria in December 2025, touring Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, Ibadan and parts of Oyo State.
Obe said the delegation returned because of the sincerity, openness and desire for learning they observed among Nigerians during the earlier visit.
“This tour is led by Sheikh Ahmad Dabbagh and forms part of a one-month African tour, with two weeks dedicated to Nigeria because of the country’s importance regionally and globally,” he said.
He said Dabbagh’s humanitarian and spiritual work had impacted people across different social classes, from labourers and students to business leaders and government officials.
According to him, the cleric has established self-development centres across continents to help people improve themselves and become better members of society.
He said that charity projects initiated by Dabbagh had supported millions of people in 12 countries through the provision of food, shelter, healthcare and other basic needs.
Obe said the World Peace Movement, established more than two decades ago, was created to promote peace, personal development and social harmony globally.
“Rather than carpeting the world with bombs, the movement seeks to carpet the world with peace.
“The whole world is asking for peace now. So why wait for bloodshed and destruction before working for peace? It is better to work for peace before harm is done,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng/)”
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
