As Christians across Nigeria and the world commemorate Easter, the Guild of Interfaith Media Practitioners Nigeria (GIMP-Nigeria), has called on Nigerians to seize the spiritual significance of the season to promote religious tolerance and national unity.
The group said that this is a pathway to sustainable socio-economic development.
In a statement on Friday by its Director of Governmental Relations, Mallam Idris Abdullahi, GIMP-Nigeria emphasised that Easter, beyond its theological meaning, offers a timely opportunity for Nigerians of all faiths to reflect on the values that bind the nation together.
Abdullahi, who is also a member of the body’s Governing Board, noted that in a country as religiously and culturally diverse as Nigeria, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence remain indispensable for progress.
He noted that, over the years, religious intolerance has contributed to social fragmentation, insecurity, and economic stagnation in parts of the country.
GIMP-Nigeria observed that fostering interfaith harmony is not only a moral obligation but also a strategic necessity for national development.
According to the Guild, no nation can achieve meaningful socio-economic growth in an atmosphere of suspicion, division, and conflict.
“Peaceful co-existence among religious groups creates the enabling environment for investment, innovation, and inclusive governance,” the group said.
It called on religious leaders, media practitioners, civil society organisations, and government institutions to use the Easter season as a platform to amplify messages of peace, dialogue, and understanding.
GIMP-Nigeria particularly urged faith leaders to preach sermons that emphasise tolerance, compassion, and respect for human dignity, regardless of religious affiliation.
It also highlighted the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and promoting interfaith dialogue.
It encouraged journalists to adopt responsible reporting practices that avoid sensationalism and instead promote narratives that unite rather than divide.
‘The media must rise above divisive tendencies and become a force for national cohesion.
“Through balanced and ethical reporting, we can build bridges of understanding among Nigeria’s diverse communities,” GIMP-Nigeria added.
It further appealed to Nigerians, especially the youth, to reject hate speech, misinformation, and extremist ideologies that threaten the country’s unity.
GIMP-Nigeria urged citizens to embrace the spirit of Easter by showing kindness, forgiveness, and solidarity with one another.
It emphasised that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and that harnessing this diversity through religious tolerance is key to unlocking the nation’s vast socio-economic potential.
“Let this Easter be a kicker to our resolve to collectively choose peace over conflict, dialogue over discord, and unity over division,” GIMP-Nigeria said.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
