Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama, has urged Nigerians to reject vengeance and embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence, saying these values are essential to overcoming the divisions and conflicts confronting the country.
Kaigama, a prominent advocate of interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding, has repeatedly called for greater understanding among Nigeria’s religious and ethnic communities. In May, he urged religious communities to prioritise dialogue and mutual understanding over approaches that deepen divisions.
The Archbishop’s latest appeal comes amid continuing security challenges, including terrorism, kidnapping, communal violence and other forms of conflict that have affected communities across the country.
He has argued that religion should serve as a force for peace rather than become a source of division or justification for violence.
Kaigama’s approach to peacebuilding is also reflected in his work with the Dialogue, Reconciliation and Peace Centre, which he founded in Jos. He has promoted dialogue involving Christians, Muslims, traditional leaders, women and young people as part of efforts to address conflict and build lasting peace.
The Archbishop has maintained that Nigeria’s religious diversity should be regarded as an asset rather than a source of conflict. During a Nigeria Interreligious Council meeting in Abuja in May, he called for a form of religious engagement based on empathy, humility and shared humanity.
His appeal for forgiveness comes at a time when tensions over insecurity and violence continue to generate anger and calls for stronger government action.
Religious leaders have increasingly urged Nigerians to resist responses that could deepen divisions. In May, the Lagos State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria also called for unity, dialogue and patriotism, warning against actions capable of worsening divisions and instability.
Kaigama’s position is that reconciliation should complement efforts to secure justice and accountability. Forgiveness, in this context, is not necessarily an abandonment of justice, but an appeal to prevent cycles of retaliation and further violence.
The Archbishop has also previously spoken about the need to protect Nigerians from violence regardless of their religious or ethnic identity, while urging political and religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity and social tensions, Kaigama’s call places renewed emphasis on dialogue, forgiveness and reconciliation as part of the broader effort to strengthen national cohesion and create conditions for sustainable development.
