Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has called for the transformation of religious faiths into formidable force to foster unity among communities, nations, continent and global.

Mr Onaiyekan made the call at the graduation of the 6th Cohort of Fellows from the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace held on Saturday in Abuja.

The COFP initiative is aimed at providing a platform to train religious leaders, young Nigerians among others as peace advocates for promoting peace and security through its Annual Fellowship Programme.

This reflects on conflicts experienced across regions resulting in internal displacement of many people across the country and other parts of the world.

Congratulating the graduands, Mr Onaiyekan charged them to use the wealth of experience acquired during the programme to make positive impacts in society.

“I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you, the graduates who have journeyed from various corners of Nigeria, as well as the many who have joined us from other nations across Africa. After a year brimming with rigorous theoretical study and profound practical experiences within your communities you have triumphantly met the mark. You are now celebrated as esteemed Peace Fellows of the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement!

“As you head back to your communities, remember that you are now fully equipped to elevate, enhance, and broaden your roles as peacemakers and faith leaders. Step forward with boldness. Never doubt the profound impact your efforts will have in fostering peace wherever you go,” he said.

He Onaiyekan said COFP Fellows were equipped to serve as emissaries of peace, having undergone comprehensive training in interreligious dialogue, conflict management, and mediation.

“Consequently, they are entrusted with upholding the highest standards of integrity and proficiency,” he said.

In her remarks, Executive Director, COFP, Rev. Sister Agatha Chikelue, said that the foundation observed the repercussions of conflicts and insecurity on livelihoods, affecting farming activities and food insecurity in the country.

Ms Chikelue said the COFP’s initiative became necessary as conventional approaches were insufficient in addressing the complexities of the contemporary world and in Nigeria in particular.

Sadiya Sheikh Abdullah, one of the beneficiaries of the initiative, said the programme had been impactful particularly on becoming peace ambassadors among various regions and religions.

Apart from Nigerians, fellows from six African nations of Sudan, Zambia, Cameroon, Kenya, Niger and Uganda were among the graduates of the initiative.

The programme also attracted various sects within the Christian and Muslim faiths, reflecting a rich tapestry of diversity and inclusivity.

(NAN)