The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has urged Nigerians to promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen interfaith dialogue, stressed that unity and progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of empathy, understanding, and mutual respect.
Freeman made the call at an Interfaith Conference on Coexistence and Dialogue among Abrahamic Faiths held in Abuja and hosted by ChabadAid, which brought together religious leaders, diplomats, and scholars from different faith traditions.
Describing the conversation on coexistence as both “important and timely,” Freeman said the world’s current divisions make dialogue indispensable.
“Coexistence is not the mere absence of conflict, but the presence of respect, empathy, and shared purpose,” the envoy stated. “It is about choosing dialogue over hate, building bridges rather than walls, and recognising that diversity can be a source of strength rather than weakness.”
Freeman shared examples from Israel, where Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Druze live, work, and study side by side, noting that while coexistence may not be perfect, it remains “real and cherished.” He also cited the Abraham Accords as proof that peace and partnership are achievable when nations focus on shared interests and values.
Drawing parallels with Nigeria, Freeman said both countries share aspirations for peace, diversity, and progress, urging Nigerians to drive reconciliation from the grassroots.
“Peace does not begin in government halls or international conferences,” he said. “It begins in neighbourhoods, schools, places of worship, and in our hearts.”
During the panel session, faith leaders Imam Muhammed Ashafa, Rabbi Menachem Chitrik, and Archbishop Peter Ogunmuyiwa emphasised the moral duty of leaders to guide youth, foster tolerance, and build inclusive communities.
Imam Ashafa said religious education should empower young people to build their communities, not divide them, while Rabbi Chitrik stressed the importance of leading by example and teaching respect across faiths. Archbishop Ogunmuyiwa of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urged Nigerians to translate interfaith principles into practice, warning against superiority claims that breed conflict.
“When we see ourselves as one family, we will not fight one another,” Ogunmuyiwa said.
Freeman reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in innovation, agriculture, education, and security, saying both nations are bound by shared moral values and a desire for lasting peace.
The interfaith dialogue was lauded for promoting understanding among Abrahamic faiths and advancing the cause of peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
