Northern elder and spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has reaffirmed that Nigeria was founded on a secular constitutional framework designed to accommodate its vast religious diversity.
Speaking during an interview on Trust TV from 5:26, the respected public affairs analyst addressed long-standing misconceptions about the nation’s formation, emphasizing that Nigeria’s constitution was the outcome of collaboration between citizens of both Islamic and Christian backgrounds.
Baba-Ahmed explained that from its inception, Nigeria was deliberately structured to be a secular state one that does not adopt or favor any particular religion.
According to him, the framers of the country’s constitution recognized the need to create a political system that would unite rather than divide the diverse population.
“The constitution was not written by Muslims; it wasn’t written by the Christians of Nigeria,” Baba-Ahmed stated. “It was drafted by Nigerians, Muslims and Christians who agreed to make it clear that Nigeria is a secular country.”
He dispelled the notion that Nigeria was established as an Islamic or Christian entity, explaining that the country’s creation was rooted in its colonial past.
Baba-Ahmed pointed out that before the arrival of the British, the various territories that make up modern-day Nigeria existed as independent societies with different systems of governance and beliefs.
The eventual amalgamation of these entities in 1914, he said, was a colonial decision that brought people of different faiths under one administrative structure.
“This country was not created by Muslims,” he continued. “The people who became Christians largely did so after the British came and colonized this land. Those converts were not the ones who designed this country. Nigeria was a colonial creation, but over time, we have learned to live with each other substantially.”
Baba-Ahmed further noted that despite the challenges posed by religious and ethnic diversity, Nigerians have managed to coexist and cooperate in nation-building.
He commended citizens for demonstrating resilience and tolerance, stressing that mutual respect and understanding are crucial for maintaining peace and unity.
He warned, however, that misrepresenting Nigeria’s constitutional and religious foundations could fuel unnecessary division. According to him, the country’s progress depends on the ability of its people to rise above sectarian sentiments and focus on shared national values.
“Religion should not be used as a tool to divide us,” he cautioned. “The constitution already provides for freedom of belief and equality before the law. What we need is to respect that framework and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of faith, feels included and protected.”
Baba-Ahmed’s remarks come amid growing public debates about the role of religion in governance and constitutional matters.
His comments serve as a reminder that Nigeria’s founding principles were built on inclusivity, collaboration, and mutual coexistence rather than religious dominance. View, More,
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