Onaiyekan aims to use religion to promote national cohesion

The Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has called for the transformation of religious faiths into a formidable force to promote unity among communities, nations, the continent and the world.

Mr Onaiyekan made the call during the graduation ceremony of the sixth cohort of Fellows of the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace, held in Abuja on Saturday.

The COFP initiative aims to provide a platform to train religious leaders, including young Nigerians, as peace advocates for promoting peace and security through the annual Fellowship Program.

This reflects the conflicts experienced in various regions, resulting in internal displacement of many people across the country and in other parts of the world.

Mr Onaiyekan congratulated the graduates and charged them to use the wealth of experience gained through the program to make a positive impact on the society.

“I am pleased to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you, the graduates who traveled from different corners of Nigeria, as well as the many who joined us from other countries in Africa. After a year of rigorous theoretical study and deep practical experiences within your communities, you have triumphantly reached the goal. You are now celebrated as esteemed Peace Fellows of the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement!

“As you return to your communities, remember that you are now fully equipped to uplift, strengthen and broaden your roles as peacemakers and faith leaders. Step forward with courage. Never doubt the profound impact your efforts will have in promoting peace wherever you go,” he said.

He Onaiyekan said COFP Fellows are equipped to serve as emissaries of peace, having undergone extensive training in interfaith dialogue, conflict management and mediation.

“Therefore, they are charged with maintaining the highest standards of integrity and competence,” he said.

In her remarks, COFP Executive Director Rev. Sister Agatha Chikelue said the foundation has observed the impact of conflict and insecurity on livelihoods, impacting agricultural activities and food insecurity in the country.

Mrs. Chikelue said the COFP initiative became necessary because conventional approaches were insufficient in addressing the complexities of the contemporary world and Nigeria in particular.

Sadiya Sheikh Abdullah, one of the beneficiaries of the initiative, said the program has been particularly impactful in becoming ambassadors of peace between different regions and religions.

In addition to Nigerians, fellows from six African countries, Sudan, Zambia, Cameroon, Kenya, Niger and Uganda, were also among the graduates of the initiative.

The program also attracted different sects within the Christian and Islamic faiths, reflecting a rich range of diversity and inclusivity.

(NAN)