The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), Katsina State Chapter, has called for stronger interfaith collaboration to promote peace and tackle insecurity.
The association made the call on Saturday at an interfaith security summit, which brought together religious leaders, government officials and stakeholders to discuss the role of faith-based organisations in tackling security challenges.
Speaking at the summit, the state Chairman of YOWICAN, Mr Praise Isaiah, urged Muslim and Christian faithful to embrace peace, mutual understanding and cooperation.
Isaiah said security was not the responsibility of the government alone, stressing the need for communities and non-state actors to contribute to tackling insecurity.
He said religious bodies had important roles to play in mediating conflicts and bridging gaps of misunderstanding among their followers.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Azaigba Kenneth-Terna, called for stronger collaboration between Muslims and Christians, saying peace and security could only be achieved through collective efforts.
“I am particularly delighted to share thoughts with you on the responsibilities of peace and security, as they are beyond government alone but collective ones,” Kenneth-Terna said.
He said religious actors had significant roles to play in promoting peace and security within communities and societies.
Kenneth-Terna urged religious leaders to use their influence to promote tolerance, dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among their followers.
The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Surajo Abubakar, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Malam Abdul Usman, said insecurity remained a major challenge for residents.
Abubakar said the Katsina State Government was working with relevant stakeholders to address security challenges confronting the state.
He said the administration of Gov. Dikko Radda remained committed to protecting lives and property and restoring lasting peace across the state.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to relevant security agencies.
NAN
