Debbie Shokoya Opens Up on Embracing Islam, Preaches Love Over Division

Nollywood actress Debbie Shokoya has opened up about her faith journey, revealing that she embraced Islam after marriage despite being born into a Christian family.

The producer explained that her decision was deeply personal and rooted in her relationship with God rather than external expectations. She emphasized that true religion should not be viewed as a competition, conflict, or debate, but rather as a way of life anchored in peace, compassion, and humanity.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Shokoya wrote:

“Christianity by birth, Muslim by marriage over here… God is love! Humanity always. I have never been a discriminator of any religion… I speak to my God the way I am comfortable with, my relationship with God is what matters the most and how I treat my fellow human. It’s not a war, it’s not a competition. Neither is it a debate. Preach love and act in love first. No matter the religion, no matter the color, no matter the tribe!”

She stressed that love, humanity, and kindness must come before religious labels, insisting that what matters most is how we treat one another regardless of tribe, background, or belief.

Opinion: Faith Beyond Boundaries

Debbie Shokoya’s words are refreshing in a time when religion often becomes a source of division rather than unity. Her message is a gentle reminder that faith—whether Christian, Muslim, or otherwise—was never meant to build walls between people but to build bridges of understanding, peace, and love.

In Nigeria especially, where religious identity frequently fuels tension, her decision to embrace a new faith without condemning her roots speaks volumes. It shows that spirituality is not about rigid boundaries but about personal conviction and universal love.

At its core, religion is supposed to make us better humans—more compassionate, more forgiving, and more selfless. If we all lived by Debbie’s simple yet powerful creed—“Humanity comes first”—then perhaps society would spend less time debating whose faith is superior and more time practicing the love every religion preaches.

Because at the end of the day, God is not impressed by the label we wear, but by the love we live.