Israel Condemns Ongoing Killings In Nigeria, Calls For Peace

Michael Freeman, the Israeli ambassador to Nigeria, has denounced the country’s ongoing killings, emphasizing that attacks on the Muslim and Christian communities have left “wounds that must be healed” in order for the nation to achieve lasting peace.

According to reports, Freeman made this statement on Thursday in Abuja during a session titled “Co-existence and Dialogue among Abrahamic Faiths,” emphasizing that peace must be established locally rather than solely through diplomatic or governmental means.

Nigeria has seen terrible hardships, such as assaults on the Muslim and Christian populations. Every tragedy leaves wounds that need to be healed, he stated.

“Peace starts in neighborhoods, schools, places of worship, and our hearts; it doesn’t start in government buildings or international gatherings.”

As the only viable route to harmony and stability in heterogeneous cultures, Freeman clarified that true coexistence involves empathy, communication, and respect for one another.

“Co-existence signifies the presence of respect, empathy, and shared purpose; it cannot be mistaken for the mere absence of conflict,” he stated.

“It is about recognizing that diversity can be a source of strength, choosing dialogue over hatred, and building bridges rather than walls.”

The event, according to the ambassador, could not have come at a better moment, given that profound divisions and animosity are currently plaguing many regions of the world.

Freeman went on to say that Israel is a nation where interfaith harmony is not viewed as a goal but rather as a way of life.

“Jews, Muslims, and Christians live, work, and study side by side every day,” he stated.

“Doctors treat every patient equally in our hospitals; students from all backgrounds learn together in our universities; and voices from every community help shape the future of our country in our parliament.”

He continued by saying that although Israel’s concept of coexistence is flawed, it is genuine and valued. He expressed optimism that the Abraham Accords would be expanded to include additional countries in the “circle of peace and prosperity.”

Freeman also emphasized the necessity of deepening ties between Israel and Nigeria, especially in the fields of innovation, agriculture, education, and security, emphasizing that the alliance must be based on respect and common principles.

Rabbi Israel Uzan, Archbishop Peter Ogunmuyiwa, Imam Kabir Muhammad, Rabbi Menachem Chitrik, Dr. Duke Akamisoko, and Imam Muhammad Ashafa were among the Islamic, Christian, and Jewish dignitaries reportedly present at the occasion.

Together, the leaders urged young involvement, revitalized grassroots leadership, and a common interfaith vision that fosters harmony and understanding across Nigeria’s many groups.