The Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners Nigeria (GIMP‑Nigeria) has advised Muslims to use the 1447 AH Hijrah New Year to build religious bridges. The new Islamic Year begins today, June 26, with the sighting of the crescent of new Muharram moon last night.
In a statement, the Chairman of the Guild, Abdulkarim Abdulmalik recalled that Prophet Muhammad’s journey of faith began in this month with the migration from Makkah to Madinah, signifying courage, conviction and community-building.
“On this auspicious occasion, we pray that Allah grants the Ummah guidance toward compassion, justice and unity.
“As commitment to renewed hope and positive transformation for ourselves and the Nigerian society, our collective interfaith mission is strengthened by our example of solidarity, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence.
“Muharram marks not only the beginning of the Islamic calendar but also a moment to reflect, resolve and rebuild. May this New Year usher in abundant blessings, forgiveness, and spiritual growth.”
Abdulmalik called on interfaith media colleagues to inspire collaborative efforts in peace-building and national dialogue, even as he wanted them to renew their dedication to narratives of bridge building and not walls.
“Let this Hijrah New Year be a fresh opportunity to amplify stories of harmony, resilience and shared humanity in our diverse Nigerian landscape.”
He also called on policymakers, civil society and faith leaders to embrace this season as a rallying point for advancing policies that promote interfaith tolerance, equitable representation and peaceful coexistence.
“From all of us at GIMP‑Nigeria, we say: Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.
1447 AH Mubarak.”
