By correspondent in Minna.
Photo credit: Daily Trust.
Former Military President Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has pledged to lead the charge for the reintroduction of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) and Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) in Nigeria’s public primary and secondary schools. He believes that instilling religious knowledge from an early age is crucial to reforming societal mindsets and combating moral decay exacerbated by social media influence among children today.
During a meeting with the Niger state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, Babangida emphasized the necessity of reintroducing CRK and IRK to foster responsible citizenship and curb rising crime and societal ills.
Reflecting on his own schooling experience in the 1950s and 1960s, Babangida recalled a time when Christian and Muslim students coexisted harmoniously, guided by religious teachings that helped shape societal values. He lamented the nation’s departure from this path and expressed confidence in restoring moral standards through education reform.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Babangida affirmed his readiness to spearhead efforts towards a more morally upright society, commending CAN’s proactive stance in advocating for religious education in schools.
In response, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna praised Babangida’s commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing CAN’s concern for the future generation’s moral upbringing amidst societal unrest. He highlighted CAN’s efforts to influence policy decisions for the reintroduction of CRK in public schools, despite existing opposition.
The initiative has sparked significant debate and activism, with stakeholders petitioning the Niger state government to reconsider its stance on CRK reintroduction, citing its potential to restore moral integrity and address youth restiveness.
This collaborative effort underscores Babangida and CAN’s shared vision of using education to build a cohesive and virtuous society, paving the way for a better future for Nigeria’s youth.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
