Cardinal Onaiyekan says interfaith dialogue will help the country

The Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, may have found a permanent solution to the religious intolerance and conflict in Nigeria.

Speaking at a three-day conference on enhancing religious peace, themed: “Faith Works Africa: Partnership for Peace and prosperity”, he said dialogue between different faiths is important.

He encouraged religious leaders to encourage this type of dialogue, as it would go a long way towards reducing violence and encouraging peace.

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Cardinal Onaiyekan also highlighted the importance of the conference, which he said would give people a different perspective on the country.

“Nigeria has a long history of peaceful coexistence and hospitality," he added.

The conference in Abuja, organised by the African Council of Religious Leaders, was also attended by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III.

Just like the Cardinal, the Sultan also stressed the importance of the conference.

According to him, the conference would increase tolerance and understanding between different religions, which eventually lead to peace in the country.

He also made reference to the economic and political situation in Nigeria, saying, "like so many countries across the world, Nigeria has its own challenges and we will overcome those challenges within a short possible time."