Members of the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) have called on Nigerians to confront rising anti-Muslim prejudice and intensify efforts aimed at promoting interfaith harmony across the country.
In a statement made available to journalists over the weekend, the Executive Chairman of MPAC, Disu Kamor, said the organisation stands in solidarity with Muslims worldwide who continue to face institutional discrimination, socio-economic exclusion and unwarranted surveillance.
Kamor noted that Islamophobia is becoming an increasing concern in Nigeria, often framed within narratives of national security or ethnic tension. According to him, the trend represents a broader societal challenge capable of undermining peaceful coexistence and national unity.
“We must recognise Islamophobia as a societal ill that undermines internal peace and mutual trust among citizens,” he said.
The group urged Nigerians to reject hate speech, stereotypes and profiling, while promoting greater interfaith understanding, respect and inclusivity in public discourse and institutions.
MPAC also called on government authorities and policymakers to strengthen legal protections against hate crimes, enforce anti-discrimination laws and ensure fair representation of all religious groups in public life.
The organisation further appealed to media institutions to uphold responsible reporting and avoid narratives that reinforce harmful stereotypes about Muslim communities. It also encouraged educational institutions to promote inclusive curricula and create safe environments that support students from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.
Addressing citizens of all faiths, Kamor urged Nigerians to challenge bigotry wherever it appears—whether online, in everyday conversations or within institutional practices.
He also called on Muslim communities to strengthen civic engagement and resilience while amplifying narratives that highlight the diversity and contributions of Muslims to Nigerian society.
“Prejudice is a societal illness that harms everyone. Islamophobia erodes trust, fuels division and threatens national unity,” he said, adding that combating the problem requires sustained education, courageous leadership and active solidarity across communities.
MPAC emphasised the need for genuine interfaith engagement as a long-term strategy to counter discrimination and build stronger social cohesion.
The organisation further urged Nigerians to “build bridges, not walls,” and work towards creating a society where every citizen can live with dignity, equality and mutual respect regardless of religious belief.