The Israeli ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has underscored the need to deepen Israel-Nigeria dialogue on peacebuilding and economic cooperation to strengthen sustainable growth between the two countries.

Mr Freeman said this at a programme titled ‘Co-existence and Dialogue among Abrahamic Faiths’, held on Thursday in Abuja.

The event was organised by the Embassy of Israel in Nigeria, the Halleluyah Society for the Promotion of Israeli Culture in Nigeria, ChabadAid Humanitarian Aid for Nigeria, and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria.

Mr Freeman noted the importance of embracing coexistence and unity as pathways to sustainable peace and progress, noting that such values can only thrive in an environment built on dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect.

“This event is timely, coming at a time when so many parts of the world are struggling with division and misunderstanding. Co-existence cannot be mistaken for the mere absence of conflict; it represents the presence of respect, empathy, and shared purpose.

“It is about choosing dialogue over hate, building bridges rather than walls, and recognising that diversity can be a source of strength,” he explained.

Mr Freeman added, “Co-existence is practiced in Israel as a lived reality rather than a distant ideal. Every day, Jews, Muslims, and Christians live, work, and study side-by-side. In our hospitals, doctors treat all patients equally; in our universities, students from every background learn together; and in our parliament, voices from every community help shape the nation’s future.

“Israel’s co-existence is not perfect, but it is real and cherished. It is not limited by borders, and we continue to hope and work for the expansion of the Abraham Accords, so that more nations join the circle of peace and prosperity.”

Mr Freeman described Nigeria as a country that had equally faced painful challenges, including attacks on both Christian and Muslim communities, noting that each tragedy created wounds that must be healed.

According to him, sustainable peace must begin at the grassroots level, not only within political or diplomatic circles.

“Peace does not begin in government halls or international conferences; it begins in neighbourhoods, in schools, in places of worship, and in our hearts,” he said.

The envoy reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria in areas such as innovation, agriculture, education, and security, adding that such collaboration would be founded on mutual respect and shared values.

(NAN)