Special Report: Gov. Sule Commissions Dari Central Mosque, Dr. John Mamman Hailed for Historic Unity Gesture

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By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku Lafia

Friday, September 5, 2025, will forever be remembered in Dari, a predominantly Christian community in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, as Governor Abdullahi Sule commissioned a newly constructed Central Mosque, a landmark project built and donated by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. John Dogara Mamman.

The rare gesture, coming from a Christian public servant, has been hailed as a powerful symbol of peace, tolerance, and interfaith unity in Nasarawa State.

Dignitaries Storm Dari

The commissioning ceremony drew a roll call of top dignitaries including former APC National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the State Council of Chiefs, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage I (Rtd), Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Labaran Shuaibu Magaji, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Isaac Danladi, Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ibrahim Tanko, Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Margaret Elayo, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, the Abaga Toni of Kokona, alongside religious leaders, politicians, administrators, friends, associates, and well-wishers.

The turnout underscored the significance of the event, which many described as unprecedented in the history of the state.

Governor Sule’s Endorsement

In his remarks, Governor Sule applauded Dr. Mamman for his magnanimity, stating that the project demonstrated a deep commitment to peace and inclusivity.

“For a Christian to build and donate a mosque to Muslim faithful is a legacy of tolerance and love that will remain a reference point in our state,” the governor said.

Voices of Royalty and Leaders

The Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage I, hailed the initiative as a true symbol of harmony among diverse faiths, urging other leaders to emulate the example.

Senator Abdullahi Adamu described the project as a milestone in Nasarawa’s interfaith relations.

Barr. Labaran Shuaibu Magaji stressed that the commissioner’s gesture reflects leadership that transcends religious boundaries.

Barr. Isaac Danladi noted that such interventions strengthen communal ties, while Dr. Ibrahim Tanko and Dr. Margaret Elayo both described the mosque as a legacy project that would outlive generations.

Adding his voice, Dr. Faisal Shuaib said the mosque stands not just as a place of worship but as a symbol of hope and inclusivity in the state.

Dr. Mamman’s Inspiration

Giving a brief history of the project, Dr. John Mamman explained that the idea was born out of his desire to promote peace and provide the Muslim faithful in Dari with a befitting worship center.

He said his conviction was driven by the belief that “religion should be a tool for unity, not division.”

A Lasting Legacy

The Sangarin Dari, traditional ruler of the host community, announced that the mosque would be properly supervised and maintained for the benefit of the faithful.

For residents of Dari and beyond, the commissioning of the Central Mosque has not only provided a house of worship but has also cemented a narrative of unity in diversity,  a legacy that will continue to inspire interfaith cooperation across Nasarawa State.