By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Concerned Yoruba Muslim Scholars in Nigeria have urged the Federal Government to disregard calls by a coalition of Christians seeking the reversal of the recognition of certificates issued by the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) as equivalent to those of WAEC, NECO, and other standardized examination bodies.

The scholars argue that the recognition aligns with Nigeria’s constitutional provisions and promotes educational inclusivity.

In a statement signed on Monday, Sheikh AbdurRasheed Mayaleeke, President General of the group, and Mallam Abdulganiy Sahid Olaide Ezra, Publicity Secretary, emphasized that the recognition of NBAIS certificates does not violate Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution, which ensures Nigeria’s secularity.

They described the call by The National Prayer Altar (TNPA), a Christian coalition, as an unexpected and unconstitutional move that infringes on the fundamental right to religion as enshrined in Section 38 of the Constitution.

“The recognition of NBAIS certificates does not in any way distort the secularity of the Nigerian state as erroneously claimed by TNPA,” the statement read.

The scholars highlighted that both Islamic and Christian Religious Studies are part of Nigeria’s public school curriculum, reflecting the nation’s pluralistic and inclusive educational system.

They called on the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) to continue recognizing NBAIS certificates, stressing that this policy is both constitutional and beneficial for national unity.

“Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution, which provides that Nigeria shall not adopt any state religion, is not undermined by the recognition of an educational objective,” the statement added.

The group also emphasized the importance of religious tolerance and mutual respect for diversity, stating that these values are essential for overcoming Nigeria’s numerous challenges.

“Only through genuine tolerance and mutual respect for diversity can Nigeria overcome its numerous challenges,” the scholars affirmed.

They commended stakeholders in the educational sector for their progressive policies and expressed hope for the continued peace and prosperity of the country.