The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has recorded another milestone in interfaith cooperation as Christian and Muslim members of staff joined hands at the foundation-laying ceremony of the Institute’s Jumat Mosque.
The ceremony, held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at the permanent site of NILDS, marked the beginning of construction of the mosque, three years after the Institute relocated to its permanent premises.
Director-General of NILDS, Prof. Abubakar O. Sulaiman, expressed delight over the active participation of Christian members of staff, noting that their involvement demonstrated the harmonious relationship existing among workers of different faiths at the Institute.
Sulaiman, who is donating half of his monthly salary for one year towards the mosque project, said the atmosphere of interfaith cooperation at NILDS offered hope for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to de-emphasise religious differences and identities and unite in the interest of national development, stressing the need for citizens to speak with one voice on issues concerning nation-building.
The Director-General also appealed to staff to take ownership of the project by making donations and reaching out to individuals and organisations for support, with the aim of completing the mosque within three to five months.
He further expressed optimism that a Christian worship centre would be established at the Institute in the near future.
Sulaiman appreciated the presence of the Imam and Deputy Imam of the National Assembly Jumat Mosque, Mallam Rayan Sani and Dr. Bala Muhammad, who joined him in performing the symbolic foundation-laying ceremony.
The religious leaders prayed for the success of the project and for Almighty Allah to accept it as an act of worship.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Director-General, his Media Adviser, Mohammad Abdulkadri (mnipr), said the event underscored the growing spirit of interfaith collaboration among NILDS staff.
The ceremony was attended by members of staff and other stakeholders, with the active participation of Christians and Muslims reinforcing NILDS’ commitment to religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity.
