by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Fifty Nigerian scholars, comprising 25 Christian and 25 Muslim leaders, have called on U.S. President Donald Trump to reopen the Voice of America (VOA) broadcasting station, which was recently shut down.
They expressed believe that reopening VOA is crucial for providing global audiences with reliable news and current affairs.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit to Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru, General Overseer of the Christ Evangelical and Life Intervention Ministry, in Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru urged both U.S. and global leaders to join forces in encouraging President Trump to reverse his decision and restore VOA’s broadcast.
The team of scholars decided to allow Pastor Buru to lead the calls, as he emphasized the importance of VOA’s role towards informing and educating millions of people worldwide on various issues, including peace, the environment, sports, culture, history, economics, health, agriculture, and interfaith dialogue.
“This global broadcaster reaches millions of people daily, providing essential information in over 30 languages,” Pastor Buru said. “People, particularly in Africa, rely on VOA’s broadcasts in Hausa and Kiswahili for accurate and timely news.”
Pastor Buru called on President Trump to reopen VOA, citing its vital service to people worldwide, especially in regions where access to trustworthy news is limited. He reiterated his appeal for U.S. and international leaders to join in urging the president to take action.