By TWE News Desk

The Inclusive Religious Engagement in Nigeria Enhanced by Women (I-RENEW) initiative conducted a Youth and Women-Led Sensitization event focused on Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) at NTA College in Jos, Plateau State. This gathering is part of I-RENEW’s commitment to raising awareness about the significance of religious freedom and fostering interfaith understanding among students in tertiary institutions.

The event which took place on the September 25, 2024, aimed to educate attendees about I-RENEW’s objectives, introduce the concept of FoRB, and explore international human rights frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, that safeguard religious liberties. Discussions also highlighted Nigerian laws supporting FoRB, identified key factors contributing to religious division and conflict, and offered strategies for respectful engagement among diverse faiths.

Project Coordinator Sumayya Abubakar explained that I-RENEW is a coalition of organizations, including the European Union, Search for Common Ground, the Dialogue Reconciliation and Peace Centre (DREP), and the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN). She noted that the initiative aims to engage students in Plateau and Kaduna states, particularly focusing on youth and women as vital agents for change in promoting a harmonious society.

“We strive to enhance understanding of freedom of religion and belief among students,” Abubakar stated. “By engaging youth in this project, we hope to cultivate an atmosphere of respect and peaceful coexistence on campuses, which can contribute to a more unified society.”

During the event, Ahmad Musa Mohammed, a representative from FOMWAN, led a session encouraging students to champion peace through interfaith dialogue. He stressed the importance of respecting diverse religious beliefs and practices, urging attendees to become ambassadors of peace and tolerance within their communities.

“Our goal is for every participant to leave this program with a renewed perspective, carrying the message of peace and religious freedom back to their communities,” Mohammed remarked.

Danjuma Famicit Churdung from DREP emphasized the critical role women play in disseminating information within families. “Women are the primary educators at home. When you educate a woman, you educate a nation,” he said, highlighting the necessity of including women in the promotion of religious harmony.

Akinyoye Emanuel, president of the Student Union Government at NTA College, commended the initiative for its potential to strengthen relationships among students of varying religious backgrounds. He pointed out that although Christians are the majority at the institution, the sensitization program is instrumental in bridging gaps between them and their Muslim peers.

“This sensitization will better equip us as future media professionals to interact with individuals from different religious backgrounds,” Emanuel noted.

The event at NTA College is part of a larger I-RENEW effort, which also encompasses activities at Plateau State University, Plateau State Polytechnic, and the University of Jos.