RismadarVoice Reporters, April 30, 2026
An Islamic cleric, Alaramma Ismail Maiduguri, has criticised the Federal Government over the construction of a N25bn ecumenical chapel and pilgrimage centre at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, describing the move as discriminatory and calling for equal provision for Muslim worshippers.
In a viral video reacting to the recent groundbreaking ceremony, the cleric alleged that the project reflects an imbalance in the treatment of religious groups, particularly under the current administration.
Citing reports, he noted that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, performed the foundation-laying ceremony, while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, provided the land for the project.
“This is injustice, and we will not accept it unless we are given land and funds to build a mosque at the airport,” the cleric said.
He also called on key Muslim organisations, including the Jama’atu Nasril Islam and the Muslim Rights Concern, as well as other groups, to respond to what he described as unfair treatment.
Alaramma further linked the development to broader concerns about equity and governance, questioning what he termed unequal compensation and attention to victims of violence in different parts of the country.
While acknowledging the rights of Christians to worship, he stressed that fairness requires equal opportunities for all religious groups.
“We are not saying Christians should not be treated fairly; all Nigerians have equal rights. But we must also be treated fairly. That is what justice means,” he said.
He added that Muslims, who observe five daily prayers, require adequate worship facilities, urging the government to ensure parity in infrastructure provision.
The Federal Government has yet to officially respond to the concerns raised, but the project has continued to generate debate over religious balance and inclusivity in public infrastructure development.
