Experts Advocate for Unity and Tolerance Across Nigeria

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Stakeholders in peacebuilding have emphasized the critical role of love in fostering peace and security across Nigeria.

Speaking at a gathering organized by the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Alumni Association, experts, diplomats, and civil society representatives explored the interplay between love, peace, and national stability.

Addressing the event, the Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, underscored the significance of love as a foundation for societal harmony and national development.

The discussion highlighted how love, expressed through compassion, empathy, and commitment to the well-being of others, serves as an essential element in building resilient communities and addressing conflict. Participants pointed out that Nigeria’s security challenges, marked by ethnic tensions, religious intolerance, and economic disparities, require a renewed emphasis on love and understanding.

He also examined historical perspectives, noting that the principles of love and peace have been central to major religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as well as African traditional beliefs.

“We are gathered here as a result of love. Love, peace, and security are three fundamental ingredients that our communities, countries, and the human race need to sustain their existence. In recent years, Nigeria has faced significant challenges related to peace and security, marked by a complex interplay of ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic factors.

“ The persistence of violence, terrorism, and conflict has not only disrupted lives but also hindered national development and social cohesion. Without doubt, these religions emphasize love for God, neighbors, and even strangers. If we prioritize these principles, we can navigate the challenges of nation-building.”

A key highlight of the event was the address by President of the International Visitor Leadership Program Alumni Association (IVLP-ECULPAA), Dr. Baraka Sani, who spoke passionately about the need to incorporate love into national policies and everyday interactions. She emphasized the role of the IVLP in fostering global understanding and collaboration and acknowledged the support of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for its continued collaboration with the IVLP Alumni Association.

“Love should not just be an abstract concept; it should be integrated into governance, education, and societal norms. When leaders and citizens alike embody love in their actions, we create a more just and peaceful society. IVLP is an avenue for building mutual understanding and peace through networking.

As ambassadors of this initiative, we must use our experiences, knowledge, and strategies, including collaboration with relevant stakeholders, to contribute toward resolving the challenges facing our country. We remain grateful to the U.S. Embassy for believing in our leadership capacity and for providing periodic small grants to alumni across the country for impactful projects and professional development.”

Also Speaking at the occasion, the Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation, sponsors of the Dialogue, Reverend Joseph Hayab emphasised the need for harmony and peaceful coexistence for our country to make the needed progress. He said the Foundation will continue to be in the forefront of advocating for Unity, equity and justice for all.

Stakeholders stressed the importance of promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Furthermore, speakers pointed out that love promotes healing and forgiveness, essential elements in conflict resolution.

The discussions also highlighted the role of community action in peacebuilding. However, several challenges to using love as a foundation for peace and security were outlined. These include ethnic and religious divisions, violent extremist groups, economic disparities, and policies that fail to promote inclusivity.

To overcome these obstacles, experts called for strategic interventions, including education on peaceful coexistence, sustainable economic development, respect for human rights, gender equality, and increased democratic participation. They also highlighted the importance of countering misinformation and fostering responsible communication.

The event concluded with a strong call to action. The IVLP Alumni Association reaffirmed its commitment to advancing peace initiatives and called on stakeholders to integrate love and tolerance into policies and community engagements for a more secure Nigeria.