By Israel Adamu,Jos
Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap has commended the efforts of the present administration for its dedication to fostering unity, growth and development through harmonious living.
She said Governor Mutfwang’s inclusive governance style, where voices are valued and all faiths are respected, has significantly contributed to strengthening the bonds of unity among the citizens of Plateau State.
Ramnap who was speaking at the Ramadan Lecture organized by the Plateau State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) described the choice of the topic, ” The Role of Religious Leaders in Nation Building” as thoughtful and timely.
According to her, the society stands at a critical point where the wisdom, guidance and moral authority of religious leaders are essential for promoting peace, unity and mutual respect, adding that religious leaders hold the power to shape perspective, influence values, and inspire communities to work together for a better society.
She applauded the NUJ for encouraging meaningful dialogue and promoting the building of a more united and peaceful Plateau.
The Commissioner called on all to reflect on the essence of Ramadan, and expressed the belief that the lecture would contribute to deepening understanding and strengthening the resolve to work together for the common good.
Speaking earlier, chairman of the Plateau State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ayuku Pwaspo said the lecture was organized as a modest contribution to the spiritual rejuvenation of members of the council and the society at large.
The NUJ boss said it was the desire of the council to provide a platform for adherents of Christianity and Islam to have a conversation that preaches peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and mutual respect for the ultimate goal of overall development of the state.
She said it was significant that the two dominant faiths are observing lent and Ramadan at the same time, adding that it should foster interreligious dialogue, promote peace and unity of purpose.
The keynote speaker, Alhaji Sani Muazu spoke on the topic, ” The Role of Religious Leaders in Nation Building”, explaining that religious leaders shape the values, beliefs, and practices of their communities, and that they significantly influence social, cultural and political dynamics.
According to him, religious leaders are also individuals who hold positions of authority and influence within their respective communities to provide spiritual direction, support and guidance, saying nation building is the process of creating and strengthening a national identity institution and infrastructure to promote economic growth, social vocation and political stability.
Muazu said nation building involves fostering national unity by promoting a shared sense of purpose, identity, and belonging among diverse groups and communities.
He added that key stakeholders such as government officials, civil society organizations, religious leaders, community leaders must collaborate to encourage values, such as compassion, justice, and equality which are essential for nation building.
Patron of the NUJ, and chairman, JNI, HRH, Dr. Muhammad Sambo Haruna II, represented by Bawa Wase, Alhaji Umar Farouq, said the topic was timely because religious leaders are role models, fathers, and guidance of the community and people.
He called on religious leaders to promote justice, peace and tolerance, and to also protect the weak and orphans.
Farouq commended the present administration for the peace being experienced in the state, saying the noble initiative reflects commitment to fostering spiritual growth, reinforcing unity, and advancing peace and development in the society.
Goodwill messages came from the chairman, Jos North, Barr. Christopher John; National President of Muslim Youth Organization, Sani Suleiman; and Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Eugene Manji.
