General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), the former Military President of Nigeria, has called on both Federal and state governments to reintroduce religious education throughout public primary and secondary schools in order to promote unity and love within the country.
During a visit to his Minna hilltop mansion, IBB expressed this sentiment upon receiving the leadership of Niger State’s Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), headed by Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna as its state Chairman.
He pointed out that Nigeria must return to incorporating religious teachings in schools as the sole means of improving society.
The distinguished politician, who applauded CAN’s dedicated efforts towards instilling strong values in the younger generation, conveyed his commitment to taking up the mantle for a more exemplary community.
He stated that he could see the significant efforts being made to reintroduce morals and religious knowledge into our society.
In order to bring about societal change, it is imperative that we impart Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK), Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) and other moral subjects in public schools.
Although it may be challenging, I firmly believe that returning to our country’s former values is imperative. This includes a renewed focus on religious education and its teachings.
“I am always ready to support any worthy cause that you may have. Whether it involves speaking to the President (Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu) or the State Governor (Rt. Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago), I can assure you that action will be taken both at national and state levels,” he affirmed confidently.
The reintroduction of CRK in public schools in Niger State has been a highly discussed topic among different parties involved.
During his formative years, Babangida noted that religious education had a significant impact on society. He fondly recalled how Christians and Muslims would pray and engage in friendly games together with love and harmony during the 1950s to the 1960s era.
Previously, Most Rev. Dr Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, the State CAN Chairman explained to IBB that their visit was a formal introduction and an opportunity for them to seek advice from his extensive experience as someone who values mutual coexistence amongst all tribes, religions or political affiliations within the country.
Dr. Yohanna, the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and an esteemed leader, has actively pursued reintroducing CRK in schools by submitting proposals to the government and eagerly awaits positive action.
The clergyman addressed the Excellency, stating that their utmost effort is directed towards diminishing any disturbance and instilling positive values in the younger generation for a more conducive society. They fervently implore his involvement in advocating for Christian Religious Knowledge to be reintroduced into the educational syllabus of all public primary and secondary schools across both state and nation.
