Groups convene Nigeria’s first interfaith conference, harp on peaceful coexistence

In a groundbreaking moment for faith relations in Nigeria on the 28th of April 2025, the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN), in collaboration with the Ecumenism for Development and Peace Initiative (EDAPI), successfully hosted the first-ever Peace and Harmony Interfaith Conference at the Baptist International Conference Centre (BICC), Lufuwape, Ogun State.

The historic gathering brought together faith leaders, scholars, community stakeholders, and monarchs committed to building bridges across religious and cultural divides. The event served as a reflective forum and an urgent call to action, rooted in the belief that peaceful coexistence is essential for Nigeria’s unity, development, and survival.

The GPFN Country Director, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, opened the conference with a historical reflection on Nigeria’s religious challenges, tracing tensions back over a century and emphasizing the urgent need to reclaim lost values of tolerance and brotherhood.

Hayab being a passionate advocate for Interfaith harmony challenged participants to embrace one another regardless of diversity, live a life of dignity and justice guided by the vision of One Family Under God.

Drawing upon religious texts from the Quran and Bible, speakers illustrated that diversity is divinely designed to foster mutual appreciation, not division.

Distinguished Christian and Muslim leaders, including Rev. Dr. O.O. Testimony Onifade, Rev. Dr. Kehinde O. Babarinde, Sheikh Murtador Sadallah, alongside monarchs HRH Oba Dr. Adesola Windapo and HRM Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, called for grassroots action such as pastor-Imam partnerships and community-based peacebuilding.

Real-life case studies and dialogue sessions emphasized empathy, forgiveness, and non-violent communication as crucial tools for sustainable peace.

The conference contrasted the peace experienced in southwestern Nigeria, particularly among Yoruba interfaith families, with the escalating extremist threats in other regions, urging immediate, proactive efforts to preserve harmony.

Representing the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC), Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, Dn. Biodun Joseph Oloyede, Vice President (Finance and Investments) of NBC, expressed deep emotion and optimism.

He said: “I was deeply moved by the unity and enthusiasm of everyone gathered. This event was a powerful reminder that, despite our differences in faith, culture, or even the colors we choose to wear, we are all connected friends, family, and members of one community.

“The seminar demonstrated that our personal beliefs should never divide us, but rather inspire synergy to build a better nation.”

He continued, “I am profoundly grateful to the organizers for igniting this movement and challenging us to keep building bridges. This is only the beginning. In the years to come, we will look back and celebrate those who dared to start this journey.

“Thank you for making history with this first-ever Interfaith Conference at the Baptist International Conference Centre. May we continue to work together for a brighter and more united future.”

At the end of the One-day conference, GPFN’s vision of “One Family Under God” remained the guiding principle, inspiring participants to become proactive peace ambassadors.