Interfaith Groups Seek Stronger Unity as Experts Warn Against Divisive Narratives in Nigeria

Interfaith Groups Seek Stronger Unity as Experts Warn Against Divisive Narratives in Nigeria

By Auwal Ahmad, Gombe

Religious leaders, civil society organisations and peacebuilding experts on Friday called for stronger national unity and collective action to address rising insecurity and social divisions in Nigeria.

The call was made during an interfaith dialogue organised in Abuja by the Office for Strategic Preparedness and Resilience (OSPRE) in collaboration with CONCORD, a non-profit organisation focused on peacebuilding and human security.

The forum, themed “Safeguarding Nigeria’s Religious Pluralism: Faith, Dialogue and National Cohesion,” brought together stakeholders from faith-based organisations, civil society groups, policy institutions and community networks to discuss the growing concerns over religion, violence and national cohesion.

Participants at the meeting stressed the importance of dialogue, cooperation and inclusive governance in tackling insecurity and preventing further social fragmentation across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of OSPRE, Chris Ngwodo, said Nigeria must pay greater attention to vulnerable rural communities affected by violence and displacement.

Mr Ngwodo noted that sustainable peace could only be achieved through inclusive policies that address governance challenges, justice, development and community protection.

He added that insecurity in Nigeria remains complex, involving ethnic tensions, sectarian conflicts, organised crime and competition over resources.

According to him, responding effectively would require multidimensional solutions and stronger collaboration among government institutions, community leaders and civil society organisations.

Participants at the dialogue also advocated improved grassroots security, responsive governance and long-term investments in initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen national integration.

Also speaking, Fatima Madaki warned against the spread of misinformation and divisive narratives capable of deepening mistrust among communities.

She said Nigeria’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths and urged faith leaders and civic actors to continue promoting empathy, justice and national unity.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and our ability to coexist despite our differences,” she said.

Organisations represented at the forum included the Islamic Education Trust, Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace, Center for Civilians in Conflict, Kukah Centre, Neem Foundation, HumAngle Foundation and the Centre for Peace Studies and Conflict Management, among others.

The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining interfaith dialogue and strengthening partnerships aimed at promoting peace, resilience and inclusive national development in Nigeria.