Cleric: Society With More Worship Centres Than Industries Won’t Prosper

Sheikh Muhammad Nuru Khalid, a prominent Islamic cleric based in Abuja, has called for stricter regulation of religious activities in Nigeria to prevent their negative impact on society. The cleric, known as the "Digital Imam," delivered a keynote address at the launch of two books in Yola, Adamawa State. Khalid expressed concern that some religious leaders are using their platforms to spread negativity, which he believes is detrimental to the country's progress.

Despite the numerous places of worship, Nigeria has yet to achieve the level of development that many would expect. Khalid argued that a society with more worship centers than industries is unlikely to prosper. He further urged politicians to adopt inclusiveness and citizenship in their election manifestos, warning that those who misuse religion for political gain should be rejected by voters.

Khalid praised Felix Joseph Samari, the author of the two books launched during the event, for his efforts in promoting peace and religious tolerance through his writings. Samari's books, "When My Name Wasn't Called" and "The Implicated Religion, Identity, and the Nigerian Condition," explore themes of identity, belonging, and the experiences of minorities in Nigeria.

Samari described "When My Name Wasn't Called" as an exploration of the challenges faced by those whose names are often overlooked, and "The Implicated" as a critique of the intricate relationship between religion, identity, and Nigeria's social condition.