Report on World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024, Held at Kasuwar Magani, Kajuru local government area of Kaduna State Date: 01-February 2024, Organized by: Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC) Introduction: Kajuru Local government area of Kaduna State, has seen chronicle of violent conflict in the past that has affected both Christians and Muslims community members, who were once living harmoniously. This attack has led to loss of lives and properties with constant reprisal attacks from both sides for the past 20 years, these attacks have displaced thousands of our people including women, children who are currently taking shelter in many Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs) across the State. However, the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC) has engaged community members to create awareness on various thematic areas such as dialogue, media awareness, mediation and sensitization towards mutual understanding for peace to be sustained in the locality. As part of the effort to promote peace the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC) utilize the World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024, themed "Bridging the Divide: Embracing Diversity for the Collective Well-being," that took place at Kasuwar Magani, Kaduna, on February 1, 2024 was organized by the Interfaith Mediation Centre, the event aimed to foster understanding, unity, and peaceful coexistence among individuals from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds. Objectives: To promote Unity and Understanding: Encourage dialogue and collaboration among participants from different faith traditions. To celebrate Diversity: Showcase the richness of various cultures and beliefs through cultural exchanges, prayer services, and community projects. To strengthen Community Bonds: Emphasize the importance of mutual support and cooperation for sustainable peace in the community. Opening Prayers: During the gathering, a momentous Interfaith Mode of Prayers unfolded, symbolizing the unity and shared spirituality among attendees. Participants, each representing various faith traditions, engaged in a harmonious convergence of prayers that transcend religious boundaries. The atmosphere resonated with reverence as individuals, guided by their respective faith practices, and seamlessly intertwined their prayers. The Interfaith Mode of Prayers became a poignant expression of solidarity, reflecting the belief that despite diverse paths of worship, there exists a common thread that unites humanity. This sacred interlude allowed for a profound exchange of spiritual energies, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse ways in which individuals connect with the divine. The Interfaith Mode of Prayers served as a powerful testament to the possibility of finding common ground through shared moments of contemplation, transcending religious differences and promoting a sense of collective peace. Opening Remark/Welcome Address: In his poignant opening remarks, Imam Dr. Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa set the tone for the World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to convene in the spirit of unity. He began by acknowledging the significance of the occasion and recognizing the esteemed Opus Prize, emphasizing the importance of celebrating such moments of collective harmony. Imam Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa eloquently highlighted the diverse assembly of individuals representing various religious and ethnic backgrounds, emphasizing the richness that diversity brings to our global community. He articulated a powerful message of coexistence, stressing the need for a collective commitment to living together in peace. Imam Ashafa encouraged all present to embrace the essence of harmony, transcending religious and ethnic boundaries. He envisioned a world where differences are celebrated, fostering an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can collaborate and thrive together. In his opening remarks, Imam Nurayn Ashafa laid the groundwork for the week-long celebration, instilling a sense of purpose and shared responsibility. His words served as a rallying call for participants to reflect on the significance of peaceful coexistence and to actively contribute to the realization of a harmonious world. Scriptural Reflection: In a deeply reflective Scriptural Reflection, Reverend Bitrus Dangiwa shared insights from the Christian perspective, drawing inspiration from the sacred scriptures. With reverence, he quoted the passage, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God," emphasizing the divine calling to actively contribute to peace in the world. Rev. Dangiwa expounded on the profound message within the scripture, underscoring the significance of living in harmony with one another. He passionately conveyed that fostering peace is not merely a commendable act but a sacred duty that aligns individuals with their spiritual identity as children of God. Building on the biblical foundation, Rev. Dangiwa delved into the concept that change begins with each individual. He echoed the sentiment that personal transformation is a catalyst for broader development, not only within local communities but also on a national scale, citing the context of Nigeria at large. In a heartfelt plea, Rev. Dangiwa advocated for the application of the golden rule – treating others as one would like to be treated. He envisioned a society where mutual respect and understanding prevail, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable development. Concluding his Scriptural Reflection, Reverend Dangiwa offered a heartfelt prayer, invoking the divine presence to sustain peace across the world. His words resonated with a deep-seated hope that the collective efforts of peacemakers, guided by spiritual principles, would lead to a harmonious and flourishing global community. Overview of World Interfaith Harmony Week: World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024 is marked by a series of events and initiatives worldwide. Interfaith dialogues take center stage, providing platforms for individuals from diverse religious backgrounds to engage in open conversations, share experiences, and deepen mutual understanding. Good Will messages: In a warm and goodwill-filled message, Tsohon Magaji extended a heartfelt welcome to all, acknowledging the positive change that has transpired. Expressing a newfound sense of togetherness and unity, he highlighted the commitment of the community to foster harmonious relationships. Tsohon Magaji emphasized a collective vow among the community members, declaring a shared determination to resist any external influence that might disrupt their unity. With sincerity, he declared that the bonds of togetherness are now fortified, creating a shield against conflicts instigated by outsiders. Additionally, he conveyed a powerful message of solidarity, asserting that no individual within the community would cause harm to another. This commitment to mutual assistance and support reflects a shared vision for a community where collaboration and understanding prevail. In his goodwill message, Tsohon Magaji radiated optimism and a genuine desire for the well-being of the community, underscoring the importance of unity and collective resilience in the face of potential challenges. In a resolute and reassuring goodwill message, Abubakar Jibril, the Commander of the Kaduna Vigilance Service in Kasuwar Magani, addressed the various types of conflicts and crises that have affected the community. Acknowledging the challenges, he made a firm commitment to prioritize the safety and well-being of the residents. Abubakar Jibril asserted the vigilance service's dedication to bridging gaps within the community, emphasizing their readiness to take proactive and sensitive measures. As guardians of security, he pledged a steadfast presence to mediate conflicts and ensure a peaceful environment for all residents. He said with all sense of responsibility, he conveyed a message of assurance that the vigilance service stands as a protective barrier, committed to maintaining peace within the community. Abubakar Jibril's message radiated a strong resolve to address challenges head-on and work collaboratively to establish lasting tranquility in Kasuwar Magani. In a gracious goodwill message, Mallam Akilu Muhammad, Chairman of the JNI, expressed sincere appreciation to the Interfaith Mediation Centre for orchestrating a significant event. He acknowledged the current state of peace in Kasuwa Magani, attributing it to the impactful interventions facilitated by the center in Kaduna. Mallam Akilu Muhammad shed light on the ongoing curfew in place, a measure aimed at ensuring the sustained tranquility of the community. He eloquently addressed the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence, cautioning against allowing selfish interests to jeopardize the strong bonds among community members. Emphasizing the genuine intentions of the Interfaith Mediation Centre, he reassured the community that the center's involvement is rooted in a sincere desire for their well-being. Mallam Akilu Muhammad conveyed that the center, despite not being native to their community, holds the people close to their hearts and actively seeks to foster a lasting atmosphere of peace and togetherness. His goodwill message radiated a spirit of gratitude, unity, and a shared commitment to maintaining the hard-earned peace in Kasuwar Magani. Mallam Akilu Muhammad's words served as an encouragement for the community to continue living in harmony, supported by the thoughtful interventions of the Interfaith Mediation Centre. In a spiritually enriching message, Rev. Danlami Danjuma, the Pastor of the Baptist Church, shared a profound biblical perspective. Drawing inspiration from Hebrews 12:14, he emphasized the scriptural principle of actively promoting peace. He conveyed the idea that striving for peace in worship and religious practices is integral to having those expressions accepted by the Creator. Rev. Danlami Danjuma's message resonated with a deep understanding of the divine importance of fostering peace within and beyond religious communities. He articulated the notion that a harmonious and peaceful environment is conducive to sincere worship, enhancing the acceptability of spiritual endeavors. With a welcoming spirit, he expressed gratitude to everyone attending the event, recognizing their collective commitment to peace. Rev. Danlami Danjuma's words served as a reminder of the spiritual significance of unity and peace, transcending denominational boundaries for a shared pursuit of divine acceptance and communal harmony. Imam Ashafa noted that “It was the wish of the Kasuwan Magani community members who decided to say we are going to stay and work towards maintaining peace in their area. Reverend Makama Danjuma Mazadi, of Grace Baptist Church Kasuwan Magani, said what happened in his community in 2018, when he was then the chapter Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the troubled community members went through was very serious, and the cessation of peace turned the area into a death zone. He stated that since the crisis there is a breach of trust among the people because they no longer trust or love one another again. He emphasized the work of IMC and other Non-Governmental Organizations to help and ensure that Kasuwan Magani is revived, and with the help of the State Government at the time creating lots of meetings and seminars, this then gave the people of the area confidence to come and tell those in the grassroots that there was need to follow peace going by scriptural injunctions from both holy books – Bible and the Qur’an. He said: “If there’s no peace, our worship is irrelevant. Our worship to God is not truthful and hence, we have to strife for peace. He narrated what has happened in Kasuwar Magani, we decided to initiate lots of things that will bring peace and one of such is the unity between Pastors and Imams. This has given us the courage to visit Mosques and Churches.” He commended the efforts in ensuring that peace is restored to their community “We thank these organizations and wish we have other international donors that will support IMC and other organizations to help support and to assist them spread this intervention to other places where there are crises, because when there’s unity, there is peace. One of the participants shared her of how she loss her love one, that caused her traumaa, hatred, love and forgiveness, 19-year old, Nuria Yusuf who lost her father during the crisis said “life for me, and my four siblings became very difficult after our father was killed. “We ran into serious financial problems and the burden of the upkeep rested squarely on the frail shoulders of my mother alone who could barely make ends meet for the five of us. “After my father’s demise, I hated the Christians thinking they were the ones that killed my father. However, when IMC came in preaching peace. I had a rethink about the whole issue especially when both sides have the same story to tell. “Today, I do not hate the Christians anymore because all of my friends are mostly from the Christian faith, and not even one from the Muslim faith. I have forgiven everyone and allowed God to heal my heart,” she narrated. Peace Song: Alhaji Shehu Karamba, known as Sarkin Waka, captivated the audience with a soulful rendition of a beautiful peace song. Through his melodious voice, he conveyed a powerful message about the significance of living in harmony with one another and the collective responsibility of promoting peace in Nigeria. Peace Rally: A vibrant Peace Rally echoed the call for peaceful coexistence among community members. Participants passionately shared positive messages, fostering unity and understanding. The rally served as a dynamic platform to spread the importance of harmony throughout the community. Why this is unique is the history of violent conflict that in the past has led to hundreds of persons killed and property in millions of naira destroyed. Food Exhibition: Diversity found expression in a delightful Food Exhibition where various culinary delights were displayed and shared among participants. This showcased the richness of cultures, emphasizing the joy of coming together in a spirit of peace and unity. Vote of Thanks: Heartwarming appreciations flowed from the women leaders of both faiths during the Vote of Thanks. They eloquently highlighted the pivotal role of peace in their community, emphasizing its paramount importance. Their words reflected a shared commitment to nurturing a harmonious environment. Closing Remarks: In his Closing Remarks, Rev. Bitrus Dangiwa extended gratitude to all participants, expressing appreciation for their presence. He wished them journey mercy back to their respective destinations, acknowledging the collective effort that made the event truly memorable. Rev. Dangiwa emphasized the importance of everyone's contribution, underscoring the lasting impact of coming together for the cause of peace. The event gracefully concluded, with a solemn Prayer to mark the culmination of the activity of the day. The essence of the Interfaith Prayer symbolizes unity and shared spirituality gracefully brought the proceedings to an end; with bowed heads and hearts attuned to the divine, participants joined together in a collective moment of reverence. The closing prayer echoed the universal desire for peace, understanding, and blessings for all present. It served as a harmonious bridge, connecting diverse faith traditions in a shared expression of gratitude and hope for a peaceful future. As the echoes of the interfaith prayers resonated, the participants dispersed with a sense of shared purpose, carrying the spirit of unity and the fervent wish for enduring peace within their hearts. The Closing Prayer became a poignant conclusion, embodying the essence of togetherness and the universal aspiration for a world filled with harmony and understanding. Outcomes: · Unity and understanding Promoted. · Diversity Celebrated. · Community Bonds Strengthened. Recommendations: 1. Sustained Interfaith Dialogue by organizing events that facilitate open conversations among individuals from diverse religious backgrounds. 2. Community Engagement Initiatives to implement more community projects and cultural exchanges to strengthen bonds and understanding. 3. Education and Awareness by Conducting workshops to promote religious literacy, dispel misconceptions, and foster tolerance. 4. Digital Outreach to enhance social media campaigns to reach a broader audience, sharing stories and experiences that promote harmony. Commitment for sustained Interfaith Harmony the religious leaders in their dialogue session on 2nd February, 2024 highlighted the followings: 1, Interfaith meetings will be held once in 3 months, but will call when there is an emergency need. 2, Initiate programs to promote diversity within the locality. 3, Youth interfaith interaction should be promoted and sustained. 4, Shared commitment during festive period and other forms of activities. 5, Integrating initiatives to discourage drug addiction among the youth in the community. 6, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and (JNI), should keep a watch on their clergy during their sermons. In conclusion, the World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024 at Kasuwar Magani was a resounding success, fostering unity, understanding, and a shared commitment to peace. The diverse activities showcased the richness of cultural traditions and the collective aspiration for a harmonious society. The community members as part of their commitment promised and undertake to have a call for peace during the Friday prayer and Sunday service, but a dialogue session being 2nd February 2024 with a novelty football match among the faith groups in Kasuwar Magani, Kajuru local government area of Kaduna State with the aim to sustain the harmonious coexistence in the locality and its environs. https://we.tl/t-T461GQhbWH https://globaltrackerng.com/2024/02/03/interfaith-harmony-week-imc-take-peace-campaign-to-kaduna-lga/ https://www.novelselite.com.ng/2024/02/interfaith-harmony-week-imc-take-peace.html https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPTJVsDDkZLdtMs9tQ3R7rnHWuHr0IwHSy5kW34ePXIoz79J-GwRbeu0DHQkMccpA?key=dWlTQUhHVUVWR0hYYXpkQktjOWFHZXU3S1ktSUF3 https://hotpen.net/2024/02/03/interfaith-harmony-week-imc-take-peace-campaign-to-kaduna-lga/ https://themailnewsonline.com/interfaith-harmony-week-imc-take-peace-campaign-to-kaduna-lga/ https://independentpost.ng/interfaith-harmony-week-imc-take-peace-campaign-to-kaduna-lga/ https://analyzernews.com/2024/02/03/interfaith-harmony-week-imc-take-peace-campaign-to-kaduna-lga/ C:\Users\HP\Downloads\IMG-20240202-WA0048 (1).jpg file:///C:/Users/HP/Downloads/IMG-20240202-WA0049%20(1).jpg C:\Users\HP\Downloads\Harmony Week Day 2.jpg