Michael Freeman, the Israeli ambassador to Nigeria, has denounced the ongoing murders there and emphasized that attacks on the Muslim and Christian communities have left “wounds that must be healed” in order for the nation to achieve lasting peace.
According to reports, Freeman made this statement in Abuja on Thursday at a session called “Co-existence and Dialogue among Abrahamic Faiths,” emphasizing that peace must be established locally rather than just through diplomatic or governmental means.
Nigeria has seen terrible hardships, such as attacks on Muslim and Christian communities. Every tragedy leaves scars that need to be healed, he stated.
“Peace starts in neighborhoods, schools, places of worship, and our hearts; it doesn’t start in government buildings or international conferences.”
As the only viable route to harmony and stability in varied cultures, Freeman clarified that true coexistence involves empathy, communication, and respect for one another.
“Coexistence signifies the presence of respect, empathy, and shared purpose; it cannot be mistaken for the mere absence of conflict,” he stated.
“It is about recognizing that diversity can be a source of strength, building bridges rather than walls, and choosing dialogue over hatred.”
The event, according to the envoy, could not have come at a better moment, as profound divisions and animosity are currently plaguing many regions of the world.
Freeman went on to say that Israel is a nation where interfaith harmony is practiced on a daily basis rather than being viewed as an ideal.
He stated, “Jews, Muslims, and Christians live, work, and study side by side every day.”
“Doctors treat every patient equally in our hospitals; students from all backgrounds study together in our universities; and voices from every community help shape the future of our country in our parliament.”
He continued by saying that although Israel’s coexistence model is flawed, it is genuine and valued. He expressed optimism that the Abraham Accords would be expanded to include more countries in the “circle of peace and prosperity.”
Additionally, Freeman emphasized the necessity of deepening ties between Israel and Nigeria, especially in the fields of innovation, agriculture, education, and security, emphasizing that the alliance must be based on respect and common principles.
According to reports, Rabbi Israel Uzan, Archbishop Peter Ogunmuyiwa, Imam Kabir Muhammad, Rabbi Menachem Chitrik, Dr. Duke Akamisoko, and Imam Muhammad Ashafa were among the Islamic, Christian, and Jewish dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
Together, the leaders urged young involvement, revitalized grassroots leadership, and a common interfaith vision that fosters harmony and understanding among Nigeria’s various communities.
