“Muslims, Christians Are the Same” – CAN President Declares at Ramadan Iftar

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Rev. Daniel Okoh, has emphasized the importance of religious unity, stating that Muslims and Christians are fundamentally the same. He made this remark on Thursday in Abuja while joining Muslim faithful for Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the Ramadan fast.

Okoh attended the Iftar gathering at Al-Habibiyya Mosque, where he participated in the feeding of approximately 2,300 fasting Muslims. He commended the mosque’s leadership for organizing the initiative, highlighting its role in fostering religious tolerance and mutual understanding in Nigeria.

“We are basically the same (Muslims and Christians), and we must find a way to make things work together in this country,” he said. Addressing those who might question his presence in a mosque, he affirmed his commitment to interfaith dialogue. “To those wondering what the President of CAN is doing in a mosque, I say this — I have come here, and I will come again. It is an opportunity to learn and share. I urge every Nigerian to understand other religions so we can grow in mutual respect, understanding, and peace.”

The National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyya Mosque, Sheik Fuad Adeyemi, spoke about the purpose of the annual Ramadan feeding program, explaining that it aims to support the less privileged, regardless of their religious background. He also emphasized the importance of fostering peace and unity by inviting people of different faiths to participate.

“We should recognize what unites us as human beings and as people destined to share the same environment. That is why we do what we do. We believe that, by God’s infinite mercy, the little we contribute will be blessed,” Adeyemi said.

The event was attended by Islamic and Christian clerics, CAN representatives, faith-based organizations, and traditional rulers, all coming together in a show of solidarity and interfaith cooperation.