In a landmark gathering at the National Christian Center in Abuja, Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria, in collaboration with Guard Time Information (Human Rights Activists Nationwide), hosted a pivotal two-day summit titled “Defending Religious Freedom as a Gospel Imperative.” The event, held at the Royal Choice Inn Conference Center, Jubilee House, brought together an array of Christian leaders, legal experts, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across Nigeria to address the pressing need to safeguard religious freedom and protect the rights of Christians in the country. The summit, organized by Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria—a prominent advocate for Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB)—served as a clarion call for a unified national agenda to promote religious equity, justice, and peace.
The summit, which drew participants from diverse backgrounds, underscored the challenges faced by Christians in Nigeria, including increasing attacks, systemic marginalization, and the need for robust legal protections. It provided a platform for dialogue, advocacy, and strategic planning to ensure that religious freedom, a fundamental human right, is upheld across the nation. The event also highlighted the critical role of Christian leaders, policymakers, and communities in fostering a society where all citizens, regardless of faith, can coexist peacefully and enjoy equal protection under the law.
Key Addresses and Calls to Action
Mr. Felix Samari, Country Contractor for Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria, delivered a compelling keynote address that set the tone for the summit. He emphasized the urgent need to address violations of religious freedom in Nigeria, where Christians often face persecution and discrimination. Samari called for a collective effort to strengthen legal frameworks and promote policies that protect the rights of all religious groups. His address resonated with attendees, who acknowledged the importance of unity in tackling these challenges.
Pastor Dele Adebayo from African Services echoed Samari’s sentiments, urging Christian leaders to take an active role in advocating for religious freedom. He stressed that the gospel imperative of love, justice, and equality must guide efforts to defend the rights of believers. Adebayo’s message inspired attendees to view religious freedom not only as a legal right but also as a moral and spiritual obligation.
Mr. Bibi Oduku, a prominent figure at the summit, highlighted the constitutional limitations that have contributed to Christians being treated as second-class citizens in certain contexts. He pointed to systemic issues, including discriminatory policies and practices, that undermine the rights of Christian communities. “Christian leaders and believers must speak the truth about what is happening in society and advocate for laws to be enforced as they are meant to be,” Oduku declared. His call for truth-telling and accountability struck a chord with attendees, who recognized the need for courageous leadership in addressing these issues.
Legal and Policy Recommendations
Barrister Bob James, Head of the Christian Lawyers Fellowship of Nigeria, delivered a powerful address advocating for the establishment of Religious Human Rights Committees in every state and community across Nigeria. These committees, he argued, would serve as vital mechanisms for monitoring and addressing violations of religious freedom. James emphasized the importance of legal literacy and grassroots advocacy in ensuring that Christian citizens are protected from discrimination and persecution. His proposal was met with widespread support, as attendees recognized the need for localized efforts to safeguard religious rights.
His Excellency Hon. Wafari Theman, a former legislator and governorship aspirant in Adamawa State, further reinforced the call for action. Theman highlighted the importance of human capital development and legal education for Nigerians of all faiths. He argued that empowering citizens with knowledge of their rights would strengthen the fight for religious freedom and promote a culture of mutual respect and understanding. Theman’s remarks underscored the intersection of education, policy, and advocacy in addressing systemic challenges.
Voices from Traditional and Religious Leaders
Traditional rulers and bishops in attendance expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of violence and discrimination against Christians in Nigeria. They highlighted cases where Christian leaders who defend their communities face unfair treatment, including harassment and intimidation. These leaders called for strategic action and policy reforms to ensure religious equity and protection for all citizens. Their presence at the summit underscored the importance of collaboration between religious, traditional, and political leaders in addressing these challenges.
The summit also featured notable dignitaries, including representatives of His Excellency Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang Esq, Governor of Plateau State; Chief Barr. Leonard Dan Nzadon, a member of the NBA National Executive Council; Rev. Fr. Prof. Cornelius Afebu Omonokhua; Rev. Prof. James Reynolds, Provost of the Theological College of Northern Nigeria; and Archbishop Joe Jatau Yari. Their participation lent significant weight to the event and highlighted the broad support for the cause of religious freedom in Nigeria.
Commitment to Peace and Justice
Mr. Bibi Oduku, speaking on behalf of both Guard Time Information and Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria, reaffirmed the organizations’ commitment to advancing human rights education and advocacy across the country. He emphasized that their mission extends beyond protecting Christian rights to promoting peace, justice, and religious freedom for all Nigerians. Oduku called on citizens to unite in maintaining peace and upholding the rule of law, urging them to be law-abiding and work together for the common good.
The summit served as a powerful reminder of the challenges facing religious communities in Nigeria and the urgent need for collective action. By bringing together leaders from diverse sectors, Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria and Guard Time Information created a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The event highlighted the importance of advocacy, legal reform, and education in addressing systemic issues and fostering a society where all citizens can practice their faith freely and without fear.
A Vision for the Future
The Religious Freedom Summit at the National Christian Center marked a significant step forward in the fight for religious equity in Nigeria. It provided a space for stakeholders to share their experiences, propose solutions, and commit to actionable steps to protect religious freedom. The event also underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing the complex challenges facing Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape.
Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria and Guard Time Information remain at the forefront of efforts to promote peace, justice, and religious freedom. Their work continues to inspire hope and drive change, as they advocate for a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of faith, can live with dignity and security. The summit’s call for Religious Human Rights Committees, legal literacy, and policy reform offers a clear roadmap for achieving these goals.
As Nigeria navigates its complex social and religious dynamics, events like the Religious Freedom Summit serve as a beacon of hope, reminding citizens of the power of unity and the importance of standing together to defend fundamental rights. By fostering dialogue, empowering communities, and advocating for justice, Faith & Freedom Africa Nigeria and Guard Time Information are helping to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all Nigerians.
