From Abel Zwànke, Lafia
The Development Initiative of West Africa (DIWA) has launched a peace-building program aimed at bridging religious divides and preventing interreligious violence in the Middle Belt region.
At a one-day event in Lafia yesterday, religious leaders pledged to strengthen relationships and promote peaceful coexistence in their communities.
Musa Mohammed, DIWA’s Program Manager, emphasized the role of interfaith collaboration in sustaining peace.
“Building Bridges is an interreligious peace-building project designed to cement relationships between community members,” he said. “We are leveraging the influence, networks, and connections of religious and traditional leaders to serve as gatekeepers and engineers for sustained peace.”
He noted that the initiative is being implemented in three states, with Nasarawa selected as a model for peace-building efforts.
“Our approach is not just about dialogue in halls; it is about practical peace-building in communities,” Mohammed explained. “We are also engaging both social and conventional media to ensure widespread dissemination of peace initiatives.”
He further pointed out that despite ongoing peace efforts, gaps remain that some elements exploit to incite violence.
“A crucial gap exists—engagement with religious leaders. They hold significant influence, and one statement from them can shape an entire community,” he added. “We aim to rebuild social capital, foster mutual respect, and encourage economic and social cooperation across religious lines.”
Ango Adamu, Executive Secretary of YMCA Mada Hills and Coordinator of the African Activist for Climate Justice Project in Nasarawa, commended DIWA for the initiative.
“This project is vital for Nasarawa State. It unites people, fosters coexistence, and addresses divisive issues,” he said. “We are pleased that this program is happening here, especially when other states have been left out.”
Similarly, Hajiya Yagana Shani, a representative of the JNI Women Wing, stressed the importance of grassroots engagement, particularly among women.
“We have attended several peace meetings before, but we hope this initiative will have a lasting impact,” she said. “Women interact closely within their communities, and after this meeting, we will take the message back to our homes, families, and neighbors.”
She also cautioned against individuals exploiting religious and cultural differences for personal gain.
“Without peace, even food loses its taste,” Shani remarked. “We must not allow ourselves to be used by a few individuals to fight along religious, cultural, or tribal lines. These differences existed before us, and they should not be a source of division.”
The DIWA-led initiative aims to create long-term impact by fostering understanding and ensuring communities work together toward sustainable peace.
