Nigerian Ethnic and Religious Harmony Conference 2025: Leaders Call for Value Reorientation and True National Unity

 By Genesis Ogiri

ABUJA — Prominent national figures have once again brought to the fore the urgent call for value reorientation, equity, and mutual respect among Nigerians at the Nigerian Ethnic and Religious Harmony Conference 2025, held at the illustrious National Merit Award House, Maitama, Abuja.

The transformative gathering drew together an exceptional mix of religious leaders, civic advocates, traditional rulers, and youth representatives — all united by a shared vision of a peaceful, inclusive, and morally reborn Nigeria.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, a renowned policy expert, reform advocate, and respected voice in governance, charged Nigerians to embrace a new national awakening rooted in justice, integrity, and genuine patriotism. Speaking on  “Value Reorientation and National Unity,” Dr. Igbuzor underscored that Nigeria’s diversity must be seen as a divine asset rather than a national burden.

“Our diversity is not our weakness. The problem is not leadership failure, but political leadership failure,” he declared with emphasis. “We must build a system that respects merit, ensures justice, and creates equal opportunities for all, irrespective of tribe or religion.”

Dr. Igbuzor further stressed that true unity cannot thrive on mere tolerance or political slogans, but on mutual respect, equity, and inclusiveness.

“Religious harmony is not just about tolerance,” he said. “It is about respect — respecting the dignity, beliefs, and humanity of others. When that becomes our foundation, peace and progress will naturally follow.”

He called on Nigerians, especially the youth, to embrace what he termed “The New Nigeria Story” — a narrative of truth, service, and shared responsibility that rises above greed, ethnicity, and religious sentiments.

“The New Nigeria Story is one where values drive progress, not politics. It is a story where every Nigerian takes responsibility for change — where we rise beyond tribe and religion to build a nation that truly works for all,” he concluded to applause.

Also speaking at the conference, Archbishop Praise echoed the same spirit of hope and reconciliation, describing national unity as the cornerstone of peace and progress. He urged citizens to revive the fading culture of oneness and communal love that once defined Nigeria’s identity.

“We must respect one another,” Archbishop Praise said passionately. “God will not reward anyone for taking another person’s life. We must learn to live, love, and grow together as one people under God.”

He further appealed for a return to positive national speech and civic pride, saying:

 “We must speak well of our leaders and speak great things about Nigeria. Let us revive the culture of unity and the spirit of brotherhood that bind us as one nation under God.”

The Convener of the Conference, Pastor Ambassador Daniel Osere, in his inspiring closing remarks, reaffirmed his lifelong passion for a united and peaceful Nigeria. He announced plans to extend the initiative across the six geopolitical zones, with a vision to raise a new generation of visionary community leaders driven by moral excellence and national consciousness.

“Every young person must ask themselves — what investment can I make in myself today that will transform the nation tomorrow?” he challenged. “The transformation of a nation begins with the transformation of the individual.”

The conference climaxed with a communiqué reaffirming the participants’ collective commitment to interfaith dialogue, value-based leadership, and civic education as essential tools for promoting peace, justice, and sustainable coexistence across Nigeria.

The epoch-making event provided a vibrant platform for faith-based and civic leaders to exchange perspectives, strengthen interethnic trust, and renew the moral foundations of Nigeria’s unity and nationhood.

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