In the Name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

This November, as the world marks Islamophobia Awareness Month, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) Nigeria stands with Muslims globally to reaffirm our collective commitment to justice, dignity, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

Islamophobia is not a distant concept. It manifests in everyday prejudices, exclusionary policies, discrimination in workplaces, hate speech online, harassment of visibly Muslim individuals, and violent attacks on communities. These realities threaten social cohesion, endanger lives, and undermine the values that hold diverse societies together.

For more than two decades, MPAC has advocated for a Nigeria – and a world – where every Muslim can live with safety, respect, and full participation in public life. We believe that challenging Islamophobia is not the responsibility of Muslims alone; it requires the active involvement of allies, institutions, policymakers, and every citizen committed to justice.

This month, we call on:

1. Government and policymakers

To strengthen legal protections against hate crimes, enforce anti-discrimination laws, and ensure fair representation of all religious groups in public life.

2. Media organizations

To uphold responsible reporting, avoid harmful stereotypes, and give balanced, accurate coverage of issues concerning Muslim communities.

3. Educational institutions

To promote interfaith understanding, incorporate inclusive curricula, and create safe spaces for students of all backgrounds.

4. Nigerians of all faiths

To challenge bigotry wherever it appears – online, in conversations, or in institutional practices.

5. Muslim communities

To continue building resilience, strengthening civic engagement, and amplifying narratives that reflect the true diversity, richness, and contributions of Islam and Muslims in Nigeria.

Prejudice is a societal illness that hurts us all. Islamophobia threatens national unity and erodes trust and fuels division. Combating it requires long-term commitment, sustained education, courageous leadership, and active solidarity.

As we observe Islamophobia Awareness Month, MPAC renews its dedication to advocacy, public education, policy engagement, and community empowerment.

Together, we can build a Nigeria where all people – regardless of their faith – are treated with fairness and human dignity.

Let this month be more than a symbolic observance; let it be a call to action.

The future we want begins with the courage to stand against hate today.

MPAC, NIGERIA

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