An Islamic Cleric of Niger Sheikh, Mohammed Kawra Asha, has lauded Ghana's decades of religious tolerance, saying that the practice remains Ghana's strongest weapon in building peace and stability in the country.

He observed that the collaboration between Christian and Muslim communities in Ghana remains the cornerstone of religious tolerance while praising the efforts being made to promote peace, understanding, and mutual respect among the various religious sects in the country.

Speaking at the annual celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Mohammed at Sekondi in the Western Region, the national Imam of Niger acknowledged the importance of interfaith, harmony and cooperation in the country.

Sheikh Mohammed Kawra Asha, the esteemed Imam of Niger and special guest commended the remarkable collaboration between Christian and Muslim communities in Ghana.

He praised the efforts being made to foster an ongoing spirit of unity, mutual respect, and cooperation, which continues to serve as a shining example for the rest of the world.

"I'm delighted to be here today. Although my visit may not be for any special occasion, seeing the joy on your faces tells me that the birthday of our Holy Prophet Mohammed has brought happiness to many of you. I will continue to pray for God's protection and blessings upon Ghana, that this nation may forever enjoy a peaceful environment.”

“I also commend the Christian community for demonstrating love and inclusiveness, showing that despite our diverse religious backgrounds, we are united in our belief in one God. May Allah bless every one of you."

Speaking at the event, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, emphasised Ghana's longstanding reputation as a model of religious tolerance, highlighting the need for citizens to continue upholding this democratic legacy.

He encouraged Ghanaians to draw inspiration from the country's harmonious religious coexistence while prioritising inclusivity and sustainable development.

“As Ghana transitions into a new administration, it is imperative that we embrace unity, regardless of our religious, ethnic, or political differences. Development cannot thrive in an environment of division and discord. Instead, it flourishes where there is peace, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to progress.”

“The diversity represented in this gathering is a clear demonstration that our strength lies in our ability to co-exist peacefully while working together for the betterment of our society.” “The Western Region, and Ghana as a whole, have long been models of religious tolerance, and we must continue to uphold this legacy”.

The President of the Western Region House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area Nana Kobbina Nketsia V, who chaired the event, charged the Muslim community to use the birthday of the Holy Prophet Mohammed as an opportunity to reflect on their lives.

"Today is a day of reflection, a day to reflect on Allah and our own lives. It's a day to introspect on our past, assess our present, and contemplate our future. We must ask ourselves: does our lifestyle align with the teachings of the Holy Prophet Mohammed? I'm delighted that you've chosen to celebrate this special day here in Sekondi."

The event served as an opportunity to recognise and appreciate individuals who have made significant contributions to societal development.

Specifically, the event, themed "Unity and Peaceful Coexistence as a Prerequisite for National Development: The Islamic Perspective," featured the National Chief Imam, Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, who led prayers for the country, promoting unity, peaceful coexistence, and national development from an Islamic perspective.