Michael Freeman, the Israeli ambassador to Nigeria, has denounced the country’s ongoing murders, emphasizing that attacks on Muslim and Christian populations 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 had to deal with difficult issues, such as attacks on Muslim and Christian populations. Every tragedy leaves scars that need to be healed, he said.
“Peace starts in our hearts, in our neighborhoods, in schools, and in places of worship, not in government buildings or international gatherings.”
As the only viable route to harmony and stability in varied cultures, Freeman clarified that true co-existence involves empathy, communication, and respect for one another.
“Coexistence signifies the presence of respect, empathy, and a common goal; 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 hate.”
The event, according to the envoy, could not have come at a better moment, given that 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 a reality rather than an idealized concept.
He declared, “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 help shape the future of our nation in our parliament.”
He went on to say that although Israel’s coexistence model is flawed, it is genuine and valued. He expressed optimism that more countries would join the “circle of peace and prosperity” through an extended Abraham Accords.
Additionally, Freeman emphasized the necessity of strengthening ties between Israel and Nigeria, especially in the fields of innovation, agriculture, education, and security. He pointed out that the collaboration 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 Jewish, Christian, and Islamic dignitaries present at the ceremony.
Together, the leaders advocated for young involvement, revitalized grassroots leadership, and a common interfaith vision that fosters harmony and understanding among Nigeria’s various communities.
