Interfaith in Action in Nigeria

Women and Grassroots Group on Reducing Inter-Religious Tension and Promoting Social Cohesion in Nigeria

As part of the project entitled “Interfaith in Action” funded by the Templeton Religion Trust, and implemented in partnership with Dar al Andalus Center (DAAC), a two-day workshop on reducing inter-religious tensions and promoting social cohesion in Nigeria was successfully held in Abuja (Kwali LEA Town Hall) on 7-8 June. The event brought together a diverse group of participants across gender, faith, ethnicity and age from various organisations in Abuja and neighbouring states.

The first day of the workshop started with 100 participants, both men and women. 50 from the Muslim side and 50 from the Christian side. The workshop was graced by traditional and religious leaders. There was a keynote address by HOD Kwali EA, two paper presentations, the first on “Mediation as a tool for reducing religious tension in Nigeria” by DPO Kwali LEA and the second on “Live in peace with all men” by Reverend Nnenna Okpara and a drama by primary school children on “Christians and Muslims living in harmony”. On the second day, the male participants were replaced by women and a third presentation was made by Dr Bilkisu Sanni of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) on “Let’s give peace a chance through Hajiya”. There were goodwill messages from community and religious leaders.

The workshop was broadcast by NTA, who were present, and covered by the Daily Trust, a print media. This gave the interaction wide coverage. Some of the community leaders even hoped that the workshop would be extended to other communities and local governments in Abuja.

Looking at the enthusiasm of the participants and the interaction that the women and grassroots workshop brought about, it can be said that the workshop conducted in Kwali LG Abuja was a success and can bring about harmonious interaction and peaceful co-existence in Nigeria.

Link to Daily Trust Newspaper’s coverage of the event