Jihad simply means striving to be a better Muslim, Christian and human being. It is not about killing anyone – Sultan of Sokoto says

Jihad simply means striving to be a better Muslim, Christian and human being. It is not about killing anyone – Sultan of Sokoto says

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’advert Abubakar III, has pressured the want for Nigerians to apprehend the proper that means of jihad, noting that it isn’t always approximately violence however approximately striving for excellence in all spheres of lifestyles.

The Sultan said this on Thursday, October two, 2025 in Abuja at the public presentation of “Scars: Nigeria’s journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum,” a ebook authored through former leader of Defence personnel, Gen. lucky Irabor (rtd.).

He suggested towards misinterpretations of Islamic concepts, announcing extremists and uninformed commentators had for decades wrongly related jihad with terrorism and violence against non-Muslims.

“Jihad genuinely capacity striving — striving to be a better Muslim, a better Christian, a higher citizen, and a better person. It isn’t always approximately killing all of us. Islam abhors extremism, and no actual Muslim can declare to comply with the teachings of the Prophet at the same time as embracing violence,” the Sultan stated.

He explained that Islam, well understood, promotes peaceful coexistence and correct governance, adding that Islamic teachings have over time helped form Nigeria’s democratic adventure by means of emphasising justice, accountability, and management responsibility.

according to him, Islamic institutions along with mosques, students, and traditional councils keep to play a stabilising role inside the usa by mediating conflicts, guiding leaders, and instructing citizens on tolerance and civic obligations.

“Islam isn’t approximately seizing electricity; it is about making sure desirable governance and duty in society. Our democracy has benefitted from these values because justice and equity are ideas rooted both in the Qur’an and in democratic exercise,” he said.

The Sultan additionally referred to as for more potent interfaith communicate, stressing that Nigeria’s cohesion depends on mutual grasp between Christians and Muslims.

“If I recognise who you’re, and you understand who i am, we are able to stay in peace. understanding each other is the foundation for national security and stability,” he added.

He recommended Gen. Irabor for writing the book, describing it as a timely aid that no longer solely archives the scars of insurgency but also gives insights for policy, governance, and countrywide restoration.

The launch attracted dignitaries inclusive of former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of Defence, carrier chiefs, traditional rulers, senior army officials, and participants of the diplomatic corps.