Israel Voices Concern Over Persistent Killings In Nigeria

Michael Freeman, the Israeli ambassador to Nigeria, has denounced the country’s ongoing murders, emphasizing that attacks on 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 on Thursday in Abuja during a session called “Co-existence and Dialogue among Abrahamic Faiths,” emphasizing that peace must be established at the local level rather than just through diplomatic or governmental means.

Attacks on both the Muslim and Christian populations have been among the worst difficulties Nigeria has experienced. Every tragedy leaves scars that need to be mended, he stated.

“Peace starts in our hearts, in our neighborhoods, in schools, and in places of worship, not in international conferences or government buildings.”

Genuine coexistence, according to Freeman, necessitates empathy, communication, and respect for one another. He pointed out that this is still the only viable route to harmony and stability in different cultures.

“Coexistence signifies the presence of respect, empathy, and shared purpose; it cannot be confused with the mere absence of conflict,” he stated.

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

The event, according to the envoy, could not have come at a better moment, given that many regions of the world are currently experiencing intense animosity and separation.

Freeman went on to say that Israel is a nation where interfaith harmony is practiced on a daily basis rather than viewed as an ideal.

He said, “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 learn together in our universities; and voices from every community contribute to shaping the future of our country in our parliament.”

Although Israel’s concept of coexistence is not ideal, he continued, it is genuine and valued. In order to include additional countries in the “circle of peace and prosperity,” he voiced optimism for an extended Abraham Accords.

Freeman also emphasized the necessity of deepening ties between Israel and Nigeria, especially in the fields of innovation, agriculture, education, and security. He pointed out that these ties must be based on mutual respect and shared 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 present at the ceremony.

Together, the leaders demanded young involvement, revitalized grassroots leadership, and a common interfaith vision that fosters harmony and understanding among Nigeria’s various communities.