Eyi Abdul, one of the young women abducted from the Chibok Girls’ school in April 2014, has regained her freedom after nearly ten years in Boko Haram captivity.
Her account offers a harrowing glimpse into the experiences of the hostages, particularly the use of forced marriage as a tool of control by the insurgents.
At a presentation at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri on Tuesday, the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj-Gen. Waheed Shuaibu, said Ehi, who is three months pregnant, was rescued on June 23, 2024, along with her two children in Sambisa Forest.
Briefing journalists at the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai Theater Command, at Maimalari barracks Maiduguri on Tuesday, Ehi, now 27, stated that she was compelled to marry eight different Boko Haram fighters during her ordeal. She is currently three months pregnant and has two young children, all fathered by her captors.
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She said, “I trekked for days before getting to a military checkpoint in Nigeria where they took me and my children in.
“I married eight men and gave birth to three children for different husbands. I did not escape all the while because I did not want to escape earlier until now.
“We the Chibok girls are not kept in the same camp, and I don’t know why they are still in captivity but those of us have chosen to remain in Sambisa, while others have not had the chance to escape.”
Her release comes alongside 332 others, including 110 women and 220 children, rescued from the Bama-Pulka axis of the Sambisa Forest during a recent operation by the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai.
However, her comments suggest a more complex situation regarding the remaining hostages.
She claims the Chibok girls were not held together and implies a potential element of choice in her delayed escape.
The Borno State government has assumed responsibility for the rehabilitation of Abdul and the other rescued individuals. However, her future remains uncertain. Abdul expressed doubt about resuming her education, highlighting the long-term psychological and social impact of her captivity.
Eyi Abdul’s story serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing trauma endured by the Chibok girls and the challenges they face in reintegrating into society. It also underscores the need for continued efforts to secure the release of those still held captive.
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Rescued Chibok girl narrates ordeal in Boko Haram den: Married 8 times, pregnant again
Inflation: Nigeria heading to direction of Zimbabwe, Venezuela – Adebajo warns
Adetilewa Adebajo, Chief Executive Officer of CFG Advisory, says Nigeria risks going in the direction of Zimbabwe and Venezuela if inflation is not curtailed.
Adebajo emphasized the importance of addressing inflation, stressing that the current economic management in the country is very critical.
He made this known on Wednesday while fielding questions on Arise Television’s Morning Show program.
While answering questions on the implications of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) new interest rate on small businesses, Adebajo said it is necessary to increase the interest rate in the short term.
He said: “Let me explain it to you in purely practical terms. We want to buy things, and suddenly we cannot stretch our Naira. The same Naira that used to buy one bag of garri cannot buy it now. I think I am an exponent of the ‘sachet economy.’
“We have become a sachet economy; even alcohol is now being sold in sachets in Nigeria. That is because we can no longer stretch our Naira. So every Naira we get, we can’t buy as much garri as we used to before.
“So, what are we going to do to ensure that the one Naira we have can buy more garri for us? If inflation continues to rise, one Naira can’t buy more garri for you. The way we can reduce inflation to get your one Naira to buy more garri for you is to increase the interest rate in the short term. And I told you, don’t get me wrong, in 2011 we have done it before.
“It’s not rocket science; it’s something that has happened in Nigeria before. It didn’t happen in another country. Check 2011 and 2014, inflation rate was 9 to 11 percent, interest rate was at an optimal rate of 10 to 13 percent or thereabouts. So what we are saying is let’s get our economy back to that period.
“Productivity issues will come into play, but if you don’t control inflation, your productivity will continue to be nonexistent. And if you don’t control the inflation, do you know the direction we are going? We are going in the direction of Zimbabwe and Venezuela.
“That is the flip side of that; you now have hyperinflation because you don’t want to face the reality of it. It’s important that we look at inflation because the economic management in this country today is very critical. And that is why this Dangote refinery issue is a distraction. The success of that very project can help to reduce inflation.”
Inflation: Nigeria heading to direction of Zimbabwe, Venezuela – Adebajo warns
How Blockchain Enhances Security in 2024

In 2024, blockchain technology will continue to revolutionize various sectors by providing robust security measures. Blockchain, a decentralized ledger system, ensures data integrity and transparency, making it a preferred choice for secure transactions. As the digital landscape evolves, the importance of blockchain security becomes paramount. Enhancing security protocols and adopting new innovations are critical to protecting data and assets from cyber threats. This article delves into the key trends and innovations that are shaping blockchain security in 2024, providing a comprehensive overview of how blockchain technology is bolstering security across different industries.
The Role of Blockchain Security in Modern Systems
Blockchain security is fundamental in maintaining the trust and integrity of digital systems. It ensures that data cannot be altered or tampered with, providing a secure environment for transactions and data storage. The decentralized nature of blockchain reduces the risk of a single point of failure, making it more resilient against cyber attacks. According to IBM, blockchain security is achieved through a combination of cryptographic techniques, consensus mechanisms, and smart contracts. These elements work together to create a secure and transparent system that is difficult for malicious actors to penetrate, thus ensuring the reliability of blockchain-based applications in modern digital systems.
Innovations in Blockchain Security
In 2024, several innovative approaches are enhancing blockchain security. For instance, advancements in encryption techniques and the development of more robust consensus algorithms are significantly improving security. Additionally, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into blockchain security protocols is providing proactive threat detection and mitigation. Katherine Phillips, an experienced educator and career advisor, emphasizes the importance of staying updated with these innovations. For a deeper understanding of these security advancements, readers can explore further insights here.
Key Trends in Blockchain Security for 2024
2024 is witnessing several key trends that are shaping the future of blockchain security. These trends include the adoption of AI-driven security solutions, the implementation of zero-knowledge proofs, and the development of more secure blockchain protocols. These trends are not only enhancing the security of blockchain systems but also making them more efficient and scalable. The use of advanced technologies such as AI and ML is particularly noteworthy, as they provide enhanced security features and allow for real-time threat detection and response.
AI-Driven Security Solutions
AI-driven security solutions are revolutionizing blockchain security by providing advanced threat detection and mitigation capabilities. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a security breach. This proactive approach to security helps in identifying and addressing threats before they can cause significant damage. A table comparing traditional security solutions with AI-driven ones highlights the superiority of AI in terms of efficiency and accuracy.
Zero-Knowledge Proofs
Zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) are another significant trend in blockchain security. ZKPs allow one party to prove to another that a statement is true without revealing any information beyond the validity of the statement itself. This ensures the privacy and security of transactions while maintaining transparency. The benefits of ZKPs include enhanced privacy, reduced risk of data leakage, and improved security. A bulleted list of key advantages of ZKPs includes privacy preservation, security enhancement, and efficiency improvement.
Innovations in Blockchain Security Protocols
New security protocols are being developed to address the evolving security challenges in blockchain systems. These protocols are designed to enhance the security, efficiency, and scalability of blockchain networks. Chainalysis, a leading blockchain analysis firm, provides insights into these emerging protocols and their potential impact on blockchain security.
Secure Multi-Party Computation
Secure Multi-Party Computation (SMPC) is a cryptographic protocol that allows multiple parties to collaboratively compute a function over their inputs while keeping those inputs private. This protocol enhances blockchain security by ensuring that sensitive data remains confidential throughout the computation process. A numbered list of implementation steps for SMPC includes establishing secure channels, distributing computation tasks, and aggregating results securely.
Homomorphic Encryption
Homomorphic encryption is a powerful technique that allows computations to be performed on encrypted data without decrypting it. This ensures that data remains secure even during processing. The significance of homomorphic encryption lies in its ability to provide robust security without compromising functionality. A table withthe pros and cons of homomorphic encryption highlights its advantages in maintaining data privacy and its challenges related to computational complexity.
Addressing Security Challenges in Blockchain
While blockchain technology offers robust security features, it also faces several challenges. These challenges include scalability issues, interoperability problems, and the need for improved user awareness and education. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the continued growth and adoption of blockchain technology.
Scalability Issues
Scalability is one of the primary challenges in blockchain security. As the number of transactions on a blockchain network increases, the system must be able to handle the increased load without compromising security. Solutions to scalability issues include implementing sharding, optimizing consensus algorithms, and enhancing network infrastructure. A numbered list of strategies to address scalability issues includes partitioning the blockchain, improving consensus efficiency, and upgrading network protocols.
Interoperability Problems
Interoperability between different blockchain networks is another significant challenge. Ensuring that different blockchains can communicate and transact with each other securely is essential for the broader adoption of blockchain technology. Methods to address interoperability issues include developing standardized protocols, using cross-chain communication techniques, and implementing blockchain bridges. A table comparing different interoperability solutions highlights their advantages and limitations.
Future Outlook on Blockchain Security
The future of blockchain security looks promising, with continued advancements in technology and increased focus on addressing existing challenges. As blockchain technology evolves, it is expected to become more secure, efficient, and scalable. Key predictions for the future of blockchain security include the widespread adoption of advanced cryptographic techniques, increased use of AI and ML for security purposes, and the development of more robust security protocols. Staying updated on these trends and innovations is crucial for individuals and organizations relying on blockchain technology to secure their digital assets.
Veterinary doctors demand payment of accumulated arrears in Kogi
Veterinary doctors in Kogi State have appealed to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to pay all accumulated arrears owed to them by the state government.
The Kogi State Chairman of the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr Tolu Omotugba, made the appeal on Wednesday in Lokoja at a press conference.
He said, “We extend our profound gratitude to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, for his approval and prompt implementation of the 2021 Revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for our members within the Kogi State Civil Service.
“This gesture underscores His Excellency’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Kogi State workers and his recognition of the pivotal role the veterinary profession plays in the state’s economic prosperity.
“This approval has motivated us to carry out our duties with renewed enthusiasm and the highest level of dedication. We respectfully urge His Excellency to utilize his esteemed office to ensure the prompt payment of the accumulated arrears since the salary structure’s implementation in January 2021.”
“An approval was given for the payment of these arrears. We appeal to Governor Ododo to speedily implement these arrears for 30 veterinary doctors. We are not asking for too much.”
He called on Governor Ododo to leverage the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to establish a similar ministry in Kogi State and appoint a credible veterinarian as its commissioner.
“We have many herders in Kogi State. This ministry will go a long way in ensuring peace among herders and farmers. The ministry should be headed by a veterinary doctor,” Omotugba added.
Omotugba admonished Governor Ododo to continue with the exemplary work he has initiated in Kogi State while the civil servants prepare to lead his reelection campaign in 2027
Veterinary doctors demand payment of accumulated arrears in Kogi
Tesla reports profit drop on price cuts, lower vehicle sales

Tesla reported a hefty drop in second-quarter profits Tuesday due to the effect of price cuts while spending aggressively on autonomous driving and other technology.
Elon Musk’s electric vehicle company reported profits of $1.5 billion, down 45 per cent, on revenues of $25.5 billion, which were up two per cent behind an increase in its energy generation and storage business.
Tesla’s earnings per share missed analyst expectations, while revenues exceeded them.
The results are the latest in a rough patch for Musk’s EV titan as it contends with rising competitive pressures that prompted a string of price cuts across leading markets.
Tesla laid off 10 per cent of its global staff this year — about 14,000 workers — as part of a push to cull expenses to finance major new investments.
That reorganization also resulted in one-time expenses of $622 million in the second quarter due to severance and other costs, said Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja.
While vehicle sales fell compared to the year-ago period, they rose from the level in the first quarter as “overall consumer sentiment improved,” Tesla said in its earnings presentation.
Although Tesla reaffirmed its expectation that vehicle volume growth may be “notably lower” than last year’s, it said new, more affordable models are set to begin production in the first half of 2025.
Musk announced the accelerated timeframe in April, winning cheers from Wall Street which had sought fresh offerings.
However, he declined on Tuesday to offer new details, saying the topic would be covered in a product launch event.
Tesla said its iconoclastic Cybertruck vehicle remains on track for profitability by the end of 2024 as it ramps up production.
– Robotaxi –
Tesla vowed to press on with technological pushes in artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.
The company postponed this month a much-anticipated robotaxi event planned for August until October.
While the “timing of robotaxi deployment depends on technological advancement and regulatory approval, we are working vigorously on this opportunity given the outsized potential value,” Tesla said.
Musk told a conference call that “moving it back a few months allowed us to improve the robotaxi as well as add in a couple other things for the product unveil” now set for October 10.
The outspoken Musk has a history of making bold predictions about the prospects for autonomous vehicles, saying conventional autos will one day be as obsolete as a horse and buggy.
But Musk has fallen short of projections about the timeframe for self-driving technology, after previously predicting the company would achieve the breakthrough by 2018.
Musk acknowledged his “overly optimistic” prior forecasts but said he expects the robotaxi could achieve full autonomy by the end of 2024, adding “I would be shocked if we cannot do it next year.”
– Political uncertainty –
The results come as Musk has lately deepened his commitment to electoral politics, coming out loudly for Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election despite the former president’s longstanding denial of climate change — which has been a professed Musk priority.
Musk formally endorsed Trump on July 13 shortly after a shock assassination attempt on the Republican presidential nominee.
Musk has agreed to donate $45 million monthly to America PAC, a fund focused on electing Trump, starting in July, the Wall Street Journal reported this month.
But the Tesla chief acknowledged that a Trump victory might affect a plan announced in March 2023 to build a new Gigafactory in Mexico, given that the Republican candidate has vowed “heavy” tariffs on Mexican goods.
“I think we need to see just where things stand after the election,” Musk said.
Heading into Tuesday’s earnings announcement, Tesla shares were essentially flat for 2024.
CFRA analyst Garrett Nelson downgraded Tesla to “hold” after previously urging a purchase of shares. While still a believer in the “long-term story” around Tesla, Nelson cited a dearth of “near-term catalysts” due to the delay of the robotaxi event.
“We move to the sidelines on valuation and pending greater clarity on intermediate-term growth drivers,” Nelson said, alluding to a run-up in shares in recent weeks.
Shares of Tesla fell 7.8 per cent in after-hours trading.
AFP
Nasarawa govt raises alarm over plot to cause mayhem
The Nasarawa State government has raised the alarm over alleged plans by certain elements to perpetrate mayhem and breach the peace in the state.
The government stated this through a statement issued by Yusuf Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, saying that the plot was uncovered by security agencies.
The syndicate allegedly plans to target high-profile personalities in the state, using their aides as victims.
“Intelligence reports reaching the State Government through the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism indicate that though the syndicate’s main targets are some prominent personalities from the state, soft targets such as persons close to those personalities and several other unsuspecting citizens are at risk of falling victim to the criminals,” the statement read.
The state government urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or unknown persons to security agencies.
The statement also pointed out that the Nasarawa State Government, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, Department of State Security Service (DSS), Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security operatives, has implemented measures to apprehend the syndicate members and their sponsors.
“Already, security agencies have made advanced efforts at botching their plans and those of other criminals and have advised citizens to be calm, go about their lawful businesses, but to reach out to them on any suspicious persons or activities,” the statement added.
Citizens have also been advised to be on the lookout for two fair-skinned, medium-height women who are usually dressed in black from head to toe.
The Perm sec also said that the Governor Abdullahi Sule-led administration has reiterated its commitment to upholding its covenant with the people by continuing the aggressive implementation of policies and programs that have placed the state on a path of growth and development.
“His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, the executive governor of Nasarawa State, has assured his commitment and resolve to continue to work around the clock to ensure the protection of lives and property of the citizens,” the statement added.
Nasarawa govt raises alarm over plot to cause mayhem
N70,000 new minimum wage applies to domestic workers — Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced that the newly approved minimum wage applies to all workers across both public and private sectors, including maids and other domestic staff.
Akpabio stated this during the plenary session on Tuesday.
The bill was speedily passed by both chambers of the National Assembly just after it was transmitted by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking during the plenary, the Senate President said, “If you are a tailor and you employ additional hands, you cannot pay them below N70,000. If you are a mother with a newborn child and you want to hire a housemaid to look after your child, you cannot pay the person below the approved minimum wage. It is not a maximum wage. It applies to all and sundry.
“If you hire a driver or gateman, you cannot pay them below N70,000. So, I’m very delighted that this has been passed, and we now look forward to employers of labour improving on what has been set as a benchmark for all to follow.
“I congratulate the Nigeria Labour Congress, all Nigerians, and the National Assembly for this epoch-making legislation, which has even reduced the term of negotiations from five years to three years in view of the increasing cost of living. This is, again, a landmark legislation, so congratulations.”
He then adjourned the sitting to 17 September.
The According reports that the Senate passed the 2024 National Minimum Wage Amendment Act Bill after President Bola Tinubu had transmitted the new wage bill to both chambers of the National Assembly, seeking expeditious support from the lawmakers for its passage.
The new bill replaces the National Minimum Wage Act, No. 8, 2019, which approved a N30,000 minimum wage with five years to negotiate a new wage. The new wage review period has now been reduced to three years following Tuesday’s legislation.
While leading a debate on the bill, the Majority Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, said N70,000 was agreed upon by all the parties after negotiations.
“This is part of the Federal Government’s short-term measure to mitigate the situation in the country,” Bamidele said.
NASS passes bill to extend Egbetokun‘s tenure as IGP by three years
The National Assembly, on Tuesday, passed the Police Act Amendment Bill, allowing the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to serve out their term as stipulated in their appointment letter.
This development comes after President Bola Tinubu forwarded the bill to the legislature, seeking to amend the IGP’s tenure.
By provisions of this new Bill, the current IGP, Kayode Egbetokun would serve out a full term of four years regardless of the established age-related retirement threshold.
Appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, Egbetokun is slated to turn 60 years by September 4, 2024. Prior to the amendment, this would have mandated his retirement.
However, with the new Bill, when passed into law, Egbetokun has had his stay as IGP extended by three additional years.
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Key Points of the Amendment:
• Previously, the Police Act stipulated a mandatory retirement age of 60 years for IGPs, regardless of their term length.
• The amended Act introduces a new clause that allows IGPs to complete their full term as specified in their appointment letter, even if it extends beyond the age of 60.
• This amendment appears specifically timed to benefit the current IGP, Egbetokun, who was appointed by President Tinubu in June 2023 with a presumed four-year term.
Analysis and Potential Implications:
Proponents might argue that it allows for stability and continuity in leadership, particularly if the IGP is mid-way through implementing reforms or tackling ongoing security challenges.
Critics, however, will raise concerns about a lack of transparency and potential political influence. The amendment’s timing, coinciding with the approaching retirement of a politically-appointed IGP, raises questions about its impartiality. Additionally, some will argue that extending the tenure of a single IGP could stifle opportunities for fresh perspectives and leadership styles within the police force.
The amended Police Act presents a new dynamic for selecting and retaining IGPs in Nigeria. While the stated goal of ensuring stability in police leadership is commendable, the potential for political influence needs careful consideration. Moving forward, it’s crucial to establish clear and objective criteria for determining IGP appointment terms. This enhanced transparency will foster public trust in the police leadership and ensure the effectiveness of this revised system.
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FG deploys reinforced concrete tech on East-West Road project

The Federal Government has announced that it is deploying reinforced concrete technology on the long-delayed East-West road, which spans the South-south region of Nigeria.
This move comes after threats of protests from the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People and former agitators in the Niger Delta over the uncompleted axis of the road.
In a statement on Wednesday in Abuja by the Minister of Works, David Umahi’s spokesman, Uchenna Orji stated that the government is committed to ensuring that segments of the road do not fail again.
He explained that the use of reinforced concrete technology would end pavement failures and years of infrastructural neglect on the highway.
MOSOP, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Imeabe Saviour, said the non-completion of the road had led to a series of accidents, resulting in loss of lives.
The group earlier in July said, “It is worrisome to mention that despite the substantial revenue generated within the Ogoni ethnic nationality, the stretch of the East-West road in our area has remained in its worst state, dilapidated and a nightmare to travellers and a death trap to the Ogoni people.
“It suffices to state that the East-West road, hyped as completed, still stands as an abandoned project today.”
Umahi over the last weekend, visited sections of the road, including the Kaiama-Ahoada section in Rivers/Bayelsa states, and commended the contractors handling the relief culverts for their commitment to the intervention.
He also lauded the quality of work being done on the kilometre 15 section 3A of the East-West Road.
The minister assured that a permanent solution is underway, with the project being procured to raise the road above the flood level, while reinforced concrete of 12 inches will be used to do the overlay.
“We are encouraging many more local contractors to come and work because there’s so much to work.”
“And so our directive is that the contractor shouldn’t open more relief culverts. Let us contain the floods by working with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC),” he added
He also urged patience from road users, stating that the project is expected to be completed by December.
The government’s move to fortify the road is seen as a step in the right direction towards addressing the infrastructure deficits in the region.
NHRC, groups partner to tackle religious extremism

The National Human Rights Commission and other faith-based groups in the country, on Tuesday, came together to set an agenda on how to tackle religious extremism and enhance the rights of beliefs and worship of all citizens.
The NHRC in partnership with The Kukah Centre and NASFAT, at a project tagged “Freedom of religion and belief in Nigeria” which was held in Abuja, called for peaceful coexistence and reduction of hate among the two major religions in the country- Christianity and Islam.
In his remarks, the NHRC Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu (SAN), said religion was a sensitive and sacred matter in the country that should be handled with utmost respect and profound regard for the adherents.
He noted that the major religions practised in Nigeria preach peace and love which makes it unexplainable when cases of religious violence and attacks arise.
He called for religious tolerance and the beliefs of others as anything contrary to that would be inimical to peaceful coexistence and by extension, national development.
Ojukwu said, “Interestingly, the two major religions in Nigeria Islam and Christianity preach peace, togetherness, and love for one’s neighbors and fellow citizens and I do not think that it is different with the traditional worshippers.
“One therefore wonders why our dear country has continued to witness avoidable cases of religious intolerance, which in some cases led to the killing of innocent citizens and the destruction of valuable properties with reckless abandon.
“In the light of the above, the National Human Rights Commission as the custodian of all human rights in Nigeria which encompasses the right to freedom of religion and belief is using this opportunity to once again appeal to the conscience of citizens, that there is no gain in fanning the embers of discrimination and hatred for any religion.”
The Executive Director of the Kukah Centre, Reverend Dr. Hassan Kukah, reiterated the need to promote the fundamental human right of freedom of religion and beliefs in Nigeria.
He noted that there is work to be done in achieving this feat.
He stressed the urgent need to address the challenge of perceived injustice to pave the way for a peaceful and tolerant society.
The chairman of the NASFAT society, FCT Zone, Dr Nasiru Mustapha, represented by the vice-chairman, Lateef Yusuf, noted that violations of religions in Nigeria must be avoided, identified or mitigated before they become a monster item of visibility in the country.
He also stressed that extremism in religion must be guided against.
Also speaking, the country representative for the International Dialogue Centre, Dr Joseph Akpan, called for research and investigation into the root causes of religious violence and discrimination.
He said this would help to understand the sociological, economic, and historical factors contributing to religious conflict which will in turn give a deeper understanding essential for creating solutions and policies.
The president of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by Habeeb Ibrahim, called for acceptance and respect for other religions and cultures.
He explained that every man has been given free will by the creator which makes religion a matter of choice, emphasising that no religion is superior to another.
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Arch Bishop David Okoh, said the diversity in beliefs, religion, and culture as we have it in Nigeria should be seen as a blessing rather than a minus.
He urged Nigerians to be tolerant of one another.
The event also marked the unveiling and public presentation of a survey report conducted by the Kukah Centre on freedom of Religion and belief in Nigeria.
Recommendations from the survey among others called for the need to promote dialogue of life and strength, constitutional provisions, and other institutions.
The survey also recommends enhanced community-led initiatives aimed at raising awareness to promote religious tolerance.