In its quest for a just and peaceful society where people of a different faith, ethnicity, and political divides can co-exist peacefully, the Justice Peace and Reconciliation Movement (JPRM) in its usual fashion held its third inter-faith National Conference in Jos, the plateau state capital recently.
The choice of the theme of the conference titled, ‘’COME LET US REASON TOGETHER: The Role of Interfaith and Traditional Institutions in Promoting the Culture of Peaceful Election in Nigeria’’ was intended to create a culture of peace and tolerance during the nation’s electoral process.
The conference which was held ahead of the 2023 elections between December 6 and 8, 2022 at JPRM Peace, Orientation and Conference Centre (POCC) behind Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Gwash – Lamingo, Jos, attracted participants from different religions and ethnic backgrounds around the country.
The conference which was the first of its kind witnessed the presentation of papers from speakers of international repute in conformity with the theme of the conference.
The President of the JPRM Board of Trustees, Rev. Dr. Habila M. Istifanus in his welcoming remarks explained that the rationale behind the conference is to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence during and after the elections. He said that the gathering aims to see how everybody can contribute his quota to the peaceful elections come 2023. Rev. Habila further stated that Nigerians at this time of our National life are mature to reason together and chart a new course for national growth and cohesion.
In the same vein, the Executive Director of the Justice Peace and Reconciliation Movement JPRM Mrs. Justina Ngwobia in a brief session described Nigeria as a great Nation strengthened by its diversity.
She argued that since every Nigerian must come from a particular ethnic background before becoming a Nigerian, there is a need to strengthen our common identity by considering Nigeria first above personal interest, especially in the 2023 elections for its survival.
Similarly, Adagwam Emmanuel Aji commended JPRM for such a timely initiative and called on Nigerians to embrace peace and harmony. Highlights of the event witnessed the presentation of Awards to deserving individuals for their contributions and national patriotism, particularly in youth empowerment and peacebuilding across the country.
PIONEER NEWS 