Introduction to Interfaith Dialogue
The Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN) has advocated for interfaith dialogue as a means to build peaceful communities across the country. This initiative was emphasized by the Country Director of the foundation, Rev. Joseph Hayab, during the International Youth Day Interfaith Dialogue in Minna. The event was coordinated with the Youth Local Action for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Through Inter-Religion Harmony.
The Importance of Interfaith Dialogue
Rev. Hayab stated that the foundation believes interfaith dialogue can foster mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among different faith communities, leading to peaceful coexistence. He emphasized that today’s gathering is a declaration that despite diverse faiths, ethnicities, and cultures, the choice is for dialogue over division, unity over conflict, and peace over violence.
Promoting Interfaith Dialogue Among Youths
The country director highlighted the importance of promoting interfaith dialogue among Nigerian youths for peace and sustainable development. According to him, interfaith dialogue among Nigerian youths can connect communities, build trust, tackle insecurity, mitigate violence, and thereby promote peaceful coexistence for sustainable livelihoods. He urged young people to rise above divisive narratives and become bridge-builders, innovators, and ambassadors of peace.
Call to Action for Government and Community Leaders
Rev. Hayab called on the government, community elders, and civil society organizations to invest in youth empowerment, provide them with skills, resources, and platforms to shape policies and decisions. This call to action is aimed at creating an enabling environment for youths to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.
Support from Government and Religious Leaders
Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger emphasized the need for both religions to promote peace in their communities and urged women to speak out against Gender-Based Violence, forced marriage, and sexual harassment. The Commissioner of Police in Niger, Adamu Elleman, commended the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Jama’atu Nasiru Islam (JNI) for promoting peaceful coexistence in Niger. He advocated for the government to engage youths in skills acquisition programs and urged parents to take responsibility and pay attention to their children to reduce crime in the communities.
Empowering Youths and Women
The Vice-Chairman of CAN in Niger, Rev. Joshua Rikoto, and the representative of JNI, Mamman Ketso, emphasized the need to empower youths and women to build a better society. This collective effort from religious and community leaders is crucial in promoting interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria’s advocacy for interfaith dialogue is a step in the right direction towards building peaceful communities across the country. By promoting interfaith dialogue among Nigerian youths, empowering them, and providing a platform for their voices to be heard, the foundation aims to foster a culture of peace, respect, and cooperation among different faith communities.
FAQs
- What is the main objective of the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria’s interfaith dialogue initiative?
The main objective is to build peaceful communities across the country by fostering mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among different faith communities. - Who are the key stakeholders involved in promoting interfaith dialogue in Niger?
The key stakeholders include the government, community elders, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and youths. - What role can women play in promoting peace and interfaith dialogue in their communities?
Women can play a significant role by speaking out against Gender-Based Violence, forced marriage, and sexual harassment, and by empowering other women and youths to become ambassadors of peace. - How can the government support interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence in Niger?
The government can support interfaith dialogue by investing in youth empowerment, providing skills and resources, and engaging youths in skills acquisition programs.
Source: nannews.ng
