21/09/2026
PEACE THROUGH THE LENS OF FoRB (Freedom of Religion or Belief)
‘Peace is not an event but a process’. The dynamics of conflict across the world and over the years have led to several studies on possible solutions to this global issue. Globally, about 73% to 75% of the world population identify with and practice one religion or the other, that is roughly 5.8 to 6 billion people. Religion or belief defines identity and lifestyle; it is reflected in their perception and guides the policies that govern communities and nations at large.
Nigeria is said to be a secular state that permits the practice of any religion without hindrance and prevents any form of a state religion. However, for decades the nation has experienced conflicts that have led to the death of millions and the destruction of lives and property. Several other groups have risen over time, targeting communities in the North, mostly in the North Central States, leaving a trail of death, including children, and the destruction of property, including the farmlands of citizens, in a bid to destroy their sources of livelihood. These persistent attacks in this region, with the majority population of Christians, have led to the United States Government designating Nigeria as a country of Particular concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act, citing concerns over the violence against religious groups and a perceived failure by authorities to stop it.
RURCON, in the last five years, has carried out several interventions through the JISRA project in communities in Plateau and Kaduna States. The project had a single goal to promote freedom of religion and belief by addressing discrimination, segregation, and extreme practices among religious groups, and to transform religious conflict into peaceful coexistence among religious groups.
The project restored relationships within religious groups by promoting love and respect and discouraging discrimination among doctrinal groups. Religious Leaders, through the project, were drivers of positive change in their communities, using their platforms to promote the message of love and changing the perception of devotees to respect all religions.
They also empowered the voices of women and youth through inclusive leadership, allowing them to be part of decision-making processes.
This year’s International Peace Day focuses on the message ‘Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day’. The message is simple and clear, and a reminder that peace begins with you as an individual. In your interactions with diverse beliefs and cultures out there, promote humanity and reject segregation. Our uniqueness as human beings are in our diversity; it defines our identity, and therefore, we must change our perception of one another and embrace our diversity.
RURCON is committed to continuous effort of invest in peace by strengthening community peace structures and partnering with organizations to ensure communities are restored to their once peaceful state. As we commemorate this Peace Day, we call on everyone to take the deliberate step to invest in peace and transform a life, community, nation, and the world at large. Make peace a priority!!
‘Religion defines the identity of billions of people across the world; it can be a great tool for sustainable peace globally’
Elizabeth Onu
RURCON Peacebuilding Officer
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE!
