PEACE SUMMIT; MSSN Adamawa and COFP Collaborate to Promote Religious Tolerance

PEACE SUMMIT; MSSN Adamawa and COFP Collaborate to Promote Religious Tolerance

The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Adamawa State Chapter, in collaboration with the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP), organized a one-day peace summit aimed at fostering religious tolerance and understanding between Muslim and Christian leaders in Adamawa State. The event, themed “Building Bridges of Understanding: Promoting Interreligious Tolerance Among Muslim and Christian Leaders in Adamawa State,” brought together key stakeholders from various religious and societal groups.

One of the keynote speakers, Pastor Bernard Kaigama, emphasized the need for Christians and Muslims to coexist peacefully. He highlighted the importance of tolerance and understanding, stressing that no society can develop without these fundamental values. Pastor Kaigama also reiterated the necessity for individuals to exercise their fundamental human rights, including freedom of worship, as enshrined in the constitution.

Another keynote speaker, Barr. Dr. Tahir, addressed common misconceptions between Christianity and Islam. He provided insights into how both religious communities can dispel misunderstandings and work together in harmony to build a more cohesive society.

The chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Bappari Umar Kem, reinforced the message of peace by citing relevant scriptures from both the Holy Bible and the Holy Qur’an. He quoted Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Additionally, he referenced a verse from the Holy Qur’an, “And do not dispute with the People of the Scripture except in the best manner, unless it be with those who inflict wrong, and say: ‘We believe in what has been revealed to us and to you; our God and your God is one, and to Him we submit'” (Qur’an 29:46).

The summit was graced by prominent figures, including the Chairman of Yola North, the District Head of Nasarawo Abba, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman for Yola North, the Muslim Council Chairman, religious leaders, students, and representatives of MSSN Yola Area Unit.

The gathering served as a platform for dialogue, mutual respect, and commitment to peacebuilding among different faiths. Participants expressed their determination to continue promoting peaceful coexistence in Adamawa State and beyond.