The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has warned that Islamophobia is becoming a growing concern in Nigeria, urging government authorities, the media and citizens to take deliberate steps to confront religious prejudice and discrimination.

In a statement issued to mark the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the organisation said Muslims in many parts of the world continue to face institutional discrimination, social exclusion, and unwarranted surveillance.

The group noted that while Nigeria is widely regarded as a country with deep religious diversity, incidents of Islamophobia are increasingly being disguised as matters of national security or ethnic tension.

According to the Executive Chairman of MPAC, Disu Kamor, Islamophobia must be recognised as a societal problem capable of undermining peace and coexistence if it is not addressed.
He said prejudice against Muslims threatens national unity and erodes trust among citizens.
“Islamophobia is a societal illness threatening our internal peace and coexistence,” Kamor said in the statement. “It fuels division and weakens the foundations of a diverse society like Nigeria.”

The organisation called on Nigerians to reject hate speech and religious profiling in both public and private spaces.

It also emphasised the importance of promoting interfaith understanding and mutual respect among the country’s religious communities.

MPAC urged government officials and policymakers to strengthen legal protections against hate crimes and ensure that anti-discrimination laws are effectively enforced.
The group added that fair representation of all religious groups in public institutions remains necessary to promote a sense of belonging and national unity.

Beyond government action, the organisation called on media organisations to exercise responsibility when reporting issues involving Muslim communities.

It urged journalists and editors to avoid stereotypes and ensure that coverage of religious matters remains balanced and accurate.

According to the group, irresponsible reporting can deepen misunderstandings and reinforce negative perceptions about Muslims.
Educational institutions were also encouraged to play a stronger role in promoting tolerance and inclusivity.

MPAC recommended that schools incorporate inclusive curricula that encourage interfaith understanding and create safe environments for students of different religious backgrounds.
The organisation said teaching young people about religious diversity could help reduce prejudice and build stronger relationships across communities.

In addition, the group called on Nigerians of all faiths to challenge bigotry whenever it appears.
This includes confronting discriminatory remarks online, in everyday conversations or within institutional practices.

MPAC stressed that combating Islamophobia requires active participation from the wider public, not only from government institutions.

The organisation also urged Muslim communities across Nigeria to remain resilient and increase their civic engagement.
It encouraged Muslims to continue participating in public life and amplifying narratives that reflect the diversity and contributions of Islam to Nigerian society.

According to the statement, Muslim communities have historically played important roles in Nigeria’s development in areas such as education, commerce and governance.

MPAC said recognising these contributions is essential to building mutual respect among different religious groups.

Kamor further stressed the need for genuine dialogue between religious communities, noting that sustained engagement can help address misunderstandings and reduce suspicion.

He said interfaith collaboration remains one of the most effective tools for promoting peaceful coexistence in a multi-religious society like Nigeria.

“Combating Islamophobia requires long-term commitment, sustained education, courageous leadership and active solidarity,” he said.
The organisation therefore called on religious leaders, civil society groups and government institutions to work together to address the problem.

MPAC maintained that strengthening interfaith cooperation and promoting respect for religious diversity will help build a more inclusive and peaceful Nigeria.

The group concluded that protecting the dignity and rights of every citizen, regardless of faith, is essential for national progress and unity.