This Day News Reports “Experts Advocate for Unity and Tolerance Across Nigeria”

Robin McDonough

June 3, 2025

A speaker addresses an audience at the IVLP Alumni Connect event, themed

Rev. John Joseph Hayab, country director for Global Peace Foundation Nigeria.

Can love and understanding create a foundation of empathy, trust, and acceptance of all people, regardless of religious, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds? On February 15, 2025, peacebuilding stakeholders joined forces in Abuja, Nigeria, at a gathering organized by the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) alumni association to discuss “Love as the Foundation for Peace and Security.”

The attendees were called upon to collaborate with other leaders, share their knowledge and experiences, and work with communities to achieve sustainable peace based on a foundation of love and inclusivity. Several guest speakers, including IVLP President Baraka Sani, emphasized the need for diverse leaders to collaborate to address the challenges facing Nigeria.

A woman in a maroon and white outfit stands with a microphone, speaking to an audience seated at tables in a decorated indoor event space.

Nigerians gather for a forum on love as the foundation for peace hosted by the International Visitor Leadership Program and Global Peace Foundation.

According to Folalumi Alaran in her article “Experts Advocate for Tolerance and Unity in Nigeria,” Dr. Sani stated, “Love should not just be an abstract concept; it should be integrated into governance, education, and societal norms. When leaders and citizens alike embody love in their actions, we create a more just and peaceful society. IVLP is an avenue for building mutual understanding and peace through networking.”

Ms. Alaran also noted that the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nigeria Country Director, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, stressed that Nigeria’s progress is dependent on harmony and peaceful coexistence. “He said the Foundation will continue to be in the forefront of advocating for unity, equity and justice for all.”

Three women stand together indoors, engaged in conversation; a map of Nigeria and the word

Attendees of the International Visitor Leadership Program’s forum on peacebuilding.

It is well past the time for people to come together in love and understanding to collectively participate in peacebuilding activities and overcome the violence and separatism that create an often insurmountable barrier to peaceful coexistence, security, and social cohesion.

To learn more about the IVLP event, Ms. Alaran’s full article can be accessed at:

Experts Advocate for Unity and Tolerance Across Nigeria – THISDAYLIVE