Pulse.ng : DIWA Calls for Dialogue to Sustain Peace, Protection of Minority Rights in Nigeria

By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

The Development Initiative of West Africa (DIWA) Stressed the need for continuous dialogue as a tool forward sustaining peace and protecting the rights of minority groups in Nigeria.

The call was made during a roundtable discussion themed “Sustaining Peace through Dialogue: A Round Table with Faith Communities in Advancing Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) and the Rights of Minority Groups in Nigeria,” organized under the Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA) project.

Speaking at the event, DIWA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Daoda Kanneh—represented by the Project Officer, Habila Muhammad Kudu—said the roundtable was designed to engage faith leaders, government representatives, and civil society actors in constructive dialogue.

According to him, the JISRA project has demonstrated that dialogue can replace suspicion, while collaboration can overcome division. He stressed that the campaign’s success lies in institutionalising dialogue efforts beyond the lifespan of the project.

“The government, religious leaders, and media practitioners have pivotal roles to play in promoting peace and protecting minority rights. Peace cannot be outsourced or left to chance; it must be nurtured intentionally, protected collectively, and sustained through constant dialogue,” Kanneh said.

He further emphasised the importance of promoting national values and enlightening the public about government policies and programmes.

In his remarks, Dr. Terngu Gwar, the State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission, said sustainable peace requires dialogue, justice, and respect for human dignity.

“Freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental human right that must be protected and respected. Dialogue is critical for sustainable peace because it enables communication, reconciliation, and mutual understanding among divided groups,” Gwar noted.

He highlighted the need for inclusive governance and participatory decision-making, adding that dialogue must address root causes of conflict while promoting social justice and reconciliation.

Delivering a goodwill message, the Agom Kufana, Mr. Titus Dauda, represented by his Principal Private Secretary, Dr. Benjamin Maigari, commended JISRA for bringing diverse voices together.

“As traditional leaders, we believe dialogue bridges differences, heals wounds, and fosters coexistence. It is a demonstration of wisdom and courage to seek common ground, not a sign of weakness,” Dauda said, reaffirming Kufana Chiefdom’s commitment to peaceful cohabitation and reconciliation.

In a presentation on promoting and protecting FoRB and the rights of religious minorities, the Chief Imam of Maiduguri Road Mosque, Kaduna, Prof. Yahaya Mujaheed, stressed the dangers of ignorance in religion.

“Ignorance breeds division, violence, and intolerance. Real change comes from addressing internal issues like arrogance and the misuse of religion. We must return to the essence of faith, which is justice, humility, compassion, and peace,” he said.

Similarly, Rev. Zachariah Ogah, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna North LGA, spoke on FoRB from a Christian perspective.

“Freedom of religion is about living with one another, respecting boundaries, and ensuring every person’s right to worship freely. The Bible teaches love, mercy, and compassion—even towards enemies—which ultimately leads to peace in communities,” he stated.

The engagement brought together stakeholders including civil society organisations, the media, religious and traditional leaders, security actors, and government representatives.

Community members and local actors also shared personal narratives on the impact of JISRA interventions, underscoring the importance of dialogue in advancing peaceful coexistence.