Abdul Ahmed, senhior program manager of GPF Nigeria, and Ahmadu Shettima, M&E officer of GPF Nigeria, with the youngest member of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam First Aid Group

Community‐driven peacebuilding is a foundation of sustainable harmony. It recognizes that peace is not something imposed from outside but something cultivated within communities themselves. At the Global Peace Foundation (GPF), our community‐driven peacebuilding initiatives engage local stakeholders, citizens, faith leaders, traditional rulers, and youth to build trust, foster dialogue, and create opportunities for cooperation around shared values and identities. By doing so, we transform divisions into bonds of solidarity that last.

Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless words, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” capture the essence of this approach. It is not enough to wish for peace; people must embody it in their daily actions.

GPF has embraced this philosophy globally, demonstrating that shared service and values are powerful tools for reconciliation. From interfaith leadership programs in Asia, to youth‐led service projects in Latin America, and community reconciliation forums in Africa, GPF has consistently empowered local people to take ownership of peace. In Nigeria, GPF has championed interfaith cooperation by bringing diverse groups together in joint service and dialogue, affirming the vision of “One Family under God.”

A vivid example of this approach came to life in Kaduna, Nigeria, on September 6, 2025, during the Community Peace Forum and Interfaith Service Project: Graveyard Restoration Initiative for Muslims and Christians in Hayin Banki. Organized by GPF Nigeria, the initiative brought together over 250 participants, including youth, women, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community groups for a day of dialogue, symbolic action, and service.

The event began with joint prayers offered by Christian and Muslim leaders, messages of goodwill, and speeches from dignitaries, followed by a unity parade featuring groups such as Hisba, Shabbatu Ahbabu, Jama’atu Nasril Islam First Aid, Boys Brigade, and Fitiyanul Islam. Together, these diverse groups modeled cooperation and mutual respect in public. The heart of the initiative was a joint sanitation exercise at the Christian and Muslim cemeteries. Side by side, participants cleared weeds and restored dignity to the resting places of their elders. In honoring their ancestors, they honored each other, showing that in death, as in life, they share a common humanity.

Abdul Ahmed, the senior program manager of GPF Nigeria, representing the Rev. John Joseph Hayab, the country director of GPF Nigeria declaring the Cemetery cleaning work open

For many, the day was historic. Reverand Bulus Edon reflected, “For the first time, Muslims and Christians have come together not just to talk about peace but to act it out. This would not have been possible without the support of the GPF Nigeria, whose vision of ‘One Family under God’ has inspired us.”

Youth leader Mallam Yusuf Tanko expressed pride in the initiative, noting, “It has shown us that unity is stronger than division. We will carry this spirit forward every year.” Representing the traditional leadership, Mallam Musa Galadima added, “The joint cleaning of our cemeteries shows respect for our elders who have passed away and strengthens the bond among us. We deeply appreciate the GPF Nigeria for always standing by our community.”

Participants during the cemetery work

The outcomes extended beyond the physical restoration of the cemeteries. The initiative created safe spaces for dialogue, built trust between Christians and Muslims, and inspired participants to commit to making the graveyard cleaning an annual tradition. It also provided a practical example of how interfaith leadership, family values, and a culture of service can be woven together to heal divisions.

The Hayin Banki initiative stands as a model for other communities in Kaduna North and beyond. It shows that peace is not only the absence of conflict but the active presence of respect, cooperation, and shared responsibility. Through initiatives like this, GPF continues to advance innovative, values‐based peacebuilding, demonstrating that diversity is not a threat but a blessing, and that lasting peace is built when communities work hand in hand as one family under God.

Learn more about GPF’s Community-driven Peacebuilding Approach.