By PHILOMINA ATTAH

The Northern Christian Religious Leaders Assembly (NOCRELA) has called on the Federal Government to appoint Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) on Christian and Muslim Religious Affairs to bridge gaps and build grassroots trust.

The Secretary-General of the association, Rev. Simon Dolly-Kif, who made the call in a statement on Monday in Abuja, said such would help foster unity and peace in the country.

Dolly-Kif noted that appointing dedicated aides would represent a strategic national necessity to harness the moral authority of faith institutions in solving everyday human challenges.

According to him, at a time when economic pressures, insecurity, and social tensions are testing the resilience of families across Nigeria, such appointments are far more than mere political gestures.

He noted that, “in many communities across the country where government presence is minimal, churches and mosques serve as primary lifelines for ordinary citizens by running health clinics, community schools, and welfare programmes.

“Religious leaders command moral authority and have deep reach into communities where formal government structures are thin.

“Engaging them through credible advisers can enhance public trust and reinforce the message that every Nigerian is valued, regardless of faith,” he said.

He emphasised that dedicated presidential aides on Christian and Muslim affairs would act as vital human bridges to facilitate constructive interfaith dialogue and mediate local conflicts before they escalate.

Outlining the key responsibilities for the proposed advisers, the cleric said they would be expected to advise the President on policies with direct social and religious impacts on citizens.

“Their role will include facilitating ongoing interfaith dialogue to deepen tolerance and mutual respect.

“They will also mobilise faith-based institutions behind public health, literacy, and poverty reduction programmes, as well as serve as early-warning channels to identify and defuse local religious friction before it leads to violence,” Dolly-Kif said.

The NOCRELA scribe stressed that harnessing the reach and ethical influence of respected faith leaders remained a critical, untapped asset for national healing and stability.

“As Nigeria strives for peace, justice, and sustainable development, governance that recognises and engages all major faith communities will reinforce our shared commitment to a prosperous nation.

“It is time to leverage every available asset for nation-building, including the moral voice of religion,” he added. (NAN)

Update news