By Yunus Olawale
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has demanded an urgent overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture and called on the Federal Government to take immediate steps to reduce the rising cost of food and transportation.
The Council made the demand in a communiqué issued after its General Assembly held at the National Mosque, Abuja, on October 1, 2026.
The Assembly, presided over by the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the NSCIA, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, said Nigeria’s insecurity affects citizens irrespective of religious affiliation and called for a comprehensive restructuring of the country’s security system.
While supporting decentralised policing, the Council said any such arrangement must be anchored on professionalism, constitutional safeguards, accountability, sustainable funding, respect for fundamental rights and effective coordination between federal and state security institutions.
The NSCIA also urged the Federal Government to expedite measures to drastically reduce the cost of transportation and food, citing the hardship being experienced by ordinary Nigerians.
On national cohesion, the Council cautioned against the manipulation of religion to promote hatred, violence and attacks, while urging Nigerians to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
It also called on Muslims to obtain their National Identification Numbers and Permanent Voter Cards and participate actively in the process of selecting leaders at all levels.
The Council urged Muslim leaders to prioritise quality education combining Islamic knowledge with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, while calling on parents and community leaders to strengthen moral guidance for young people.
On religious rights, the NSCIA called on government institutions to respect the right of Muslim female students, NYSC members, security personnel and other female workers to use the hijab.
It also urged the Rivers State Government and the management of Rivers State University to implement without further delay the Supreme Court judgment concerning the construction of a mosque for Muslim students on the university campus.
The General Assembly further adopted the 2026 report of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, and endorsed recommendations aimed at repositioning the Hajj industry.
The Council also honoured its Secretary-General, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, for his contributions to educational development and nation-building during his tenure as Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
The Assembly additionally approved the renewal and expansion of the NSCIA National Executive Committee, with new positions covering national, international, corporate, administrative, public relations, development and family affairs.
The Council urged Muslims to translate their faith into responsible citizenship, professional excellence and meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s development.
