Sheikh Mahmoud begins Nigeria-wide peace and leadership tour

The UK-based scholar is in the country for a 13-day tour organised by MICA and partner groups, focused on interfaith dialogue and faith-driven leadership.

By Abdullahi Yusuf

Renowned British-based Islamic scholar and community leader Sheikh Mohammed Mahmoud has arrived in Nigeria for a nationwide tour aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence, interfaith dialogue and youth leadership.

The 13-day visit, which runs from December 16 to 29, is focused on engaging young people and community leaders on how faith, ethical leadership and personal development can be harnessed to address social tensions and contemporary challenges.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos shortly after his arrival, Sheikh Mahmoud said the initiative was designed to strengthen understanding across religious and cultural divides while offering practical guidance to young Nigerians navigating a rapidly changing world.

The tour is being organised by the Movement for Islamic Culture and Awareness (MICA), in partnership with the UK-based Global Peace Movement and Tahara Collectives.

Activities are scheduled across several cities, beginning in Abuja, where Sheikh Mahmoud is expected to lead study sessions, youth engagements and media discussions. A major symposium is planned for December 20 at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Hall in the capital.

From Abuja, the scholar will travel to Lagos and Ibadan, hosting public lectures and youth-focused dialogues between December 21 and 25. A special outreach programme is also planned in Ijebu Ode on Christmas Day, reflecting the tour’s emphasis on peaceful coexistence and community engagement.

The final leg of the visit will take place in Kaduna, where events from December 25 to 29 will include media interactions, religious study sessions and a closing symposium at Kaduna State University.

Organisers say the tour is centred on fostering unity, promoting faith-informed leadership and addressing misconceptions about Islam, with a particular focus on youth participation.

Sheikh Mahmoud is widely known in the United Kingdom for his advocacy for peace and community cohesion, including his public response following the 2017 attack near a London mosque. He said the Nigeria visit offers an opportunity to exchange experiences, strengthen ties with local communities and contribute to broader efforts toward a peaceful and inclusive society.

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