The General Overseer of Mountain of Fire Miracle (MFM) Church, Pastor Daniel Olukoya, stressed on Saturday that interfaith dialogue and a culture of empathy and compassion are essential for maintaining peace in society.
Olukoya, said that, the acculturation of those values were central to an effective religious peacemaking that enable individuals understand and relate to others perspectives thereby foster religious harmony.
Olukoya, an awardee, at the Institute of Security Nigeria (ISN) 2024 17th conference, made the advocacy at the awards and investiture held at the University of Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, the MFM overseer, was awarded with the ISN Distinguished Fellowship, for his works in national development and human capital development.
The theme of the conference was “Advancing Security Education for Stable Political System, Socio-Economic Development, Good Governance and Mitigating Terrorism in Nigeria.
The MFM boss, represented at the event by Pastor Daniel Osayande, said that, interfaith dialogue encouraged open conversation between faith communities, help resolve conflicts, promotes peaceful coexistence and advance security in the society.
“Educating people about others faith, principles can dispel misconceptions and foster tolerance among peoples.
“Collaborative efforts between religious groups and the civil society can to a large extent foster security and promote community resilience.
“Promoting citizenship through religious understanding different faiths and their principles can encourage active citizenship and community engagement,” he said.
The gospel preacher, decried the weaponisation of religion by some persons for selfish ends, called on the authorities to foster religious education, saying it encourages critical thinking, empathy and tolerance.
He stressed that the incorporation of religious education into school curricula would promote an informed citizenry and a harmonious society.
He stressed that getting religious harmony stable, takes a flashpoint away from the nation’s security burden.
NAN reports that, the former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, AMB. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (LT GEN. Rtd), the Provost Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria (ACAN) Prof. Tunde Babawale and others were recognised with awards by the ISN.
By Uchenna Eletuo
