Two-day programme focuses on conflict transformation, trauma awareness and peaceful coexistence amid Nigeria’s security challenges
The International Centre for Interfaith Peace and Harmony (ICIPH) has hosted a two-day interfaith training programme focused on conflict transformation, trauma awareness and peacebuilding, bringing together Christian and Muslim religious leaders at its headquarters in Kwarhi.
The training, held on Monday, August 10 and Tuesday, August 11, 2026, was organised by the International Centre for Interfaith Peace and Harmony (ICIPH), in collaboration with the World Council of Churches (WCC) African Regional Programme Office, Abuja, and Foundation pour l’Aide Au Protestantisme Réformé (FAP) and EYN Peace program.
The programme was designed to strengthen the capacity of religious leaders to understand conflict and trauma, respond constructively to tensions and promote peaceful coexistence within their communities.
The training took place against the backdrop of continuing insecurity and communal tensions in parts of Nigeria. It provided an opportunity for Christian and Muslim leaders to engage in dialogue and explore practical approaches to conflict transformation and reconciliation.
EYN President Calls for Peace
The President of EYN, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, declared the programme open with a message from Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live in peace with everyone.”
Rev. Mbaya expressed appreciation to the World Council of Churches and other partners for considering EYN Headquarters an appropriate venue for the programme.
He encouraged participants to make meaningful use of the knowledge gained during the training and assured them of a welcoming environment at the EYN headquarters.
The EYN President also urged the Christian community to respect the religious practices of Muslim participants, specifically encouraging them to observe their prayer times comfortably throughout the programme.
He prayed for peace in Nigeria and expressed hope that the country would experience greater stability and security.
Religious Leaders Equipped for Community Peacebuilding
The central theme of the programme was “Conflict Transformation, Trauma Awareness and Peace Building.”
Instructors at the training included Mrs. Koni Ishaya, Mallam Abdullazeez Adulwasiu Biodun, Mr. Ibrahim Terri Kannah and James Ibrahim.
The sessions focused on the role religious leaders can play in preventing the escalation of conflict, responding to trauma and supporting reconciliation within communities affected by violence and insecurity.
The participation of Christian and Muslim leaders also created an opportunity for participants to listen to one another, exchange experiences and consider practical ways of addressing challenges affecting their respective communities.
Participants Commit to Sharing Knowledge
At the conclusion of the programme, participants from both Christian and Muslim communities expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the training.
Participants committed themselves to sharing the knowledge and experiences gained with members of their respective communities.
The organizers of the Interfaith Peacebuilding Training noted the importance of such commitments, particularly because religious leaders often have significant influence within local communities and can contribute to early intervention, dialogue and reconciliation when tensions arise.
The training also reinforced the importance of interfaith engagement in strengthening community resilience and promoting peaceful coexistence.
For EYN, the collaboration with interfaith and international partners provides an avenue to strengthen peacebuilding efforts while encouraging constructive engagement between Christian and Muslim communities.
The conclusion of the two-day programme therefore marks not an end, but a broader responsibility for participants to apply and share the lessons gained in their communities.
As Nigeria continues to face security and social challenges, initiatives that bring religious leaders together for dialogue, trauma awareness and practical peacebuilding remain an important part of efforts towards reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
Nice and good