The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has stressed that peace and progress can only thrive in an environment built on dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect, urging Nigerians to embrace coexistence and unity.
Speaking at an interfaith conference on coexistence and dialogue among Abrahamic Faiths in Abuja, Ambassador Freeman stressed that coexistence should not be mistaken for the mere absence of conflict, but that it represents the presence of respect, empathy, and shared purpose.
He noted that due to division, hate, and misunderstanding faced by different parts of the world today, the conversation on coexistence was both very apt.
“It’s an honour to join today’s important and very timely discussions on coexistence. At a time when so many parts of the world are struggling with division and misunderstanding, this conversation could not be more necessary. It is about choosing dialogue over hate, building bridges rather than walls, and recognising that our diversity can be a source of strength rather than weakness,” he said.
According to Freeman, the coexistence practiced in Israel is a lived reality rather than a distant ideal.
“Every day, Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Druze live, work, and study side by side. In our hospitals, doctors treat all patients equally. In our universities, students from every background learn together. In our parliament, voices from every community help shape the nation’s future.”
The Israeli Ambassador highlighted Israel’s regional peace efforts through the Abraham Accords, which have strengthened diplomatic and economic ties with countries such as Morocco, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.
“These accords have already changed the face of the Middle East, proving that peace between peoples is possible when we focus on what unites us. We continue to hope and work for the expansion of the Abraham Accords so that more nations will join the circle of peace and prosperity”, he said.
Comparing Israel and Nigeria, Freeman said both countries share similar ideas for peace, diversity, and progress.
“Here in Nigeria, we see a nation that mirrors that same aspiration, diverse, faithful, and full of promise. Nigeria has faced painful challenges, attacks on Christian communities, and attacks on Muslim communities. Each tragedy is a wound that must be healed, and healing can only begin through understanding and partnership.”
The envoy reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to deepening its cooperation with Nigeria in areas such as innovation, agriculture, education, and security, while also building a stronger “moral partnership” founded on mutual respect and shared values.
“Our shared belief is that coexistence is essential to progress, security, and hope. Where difference is celebrated and unity is protected—that is how peace is sustained, that is how nations thrive”, he said
Ambassador Freeman expressed optimism about the growing partnership between Israel and Nigeria. He commended the organisers for fostering dialogue on peace and coexistence.
“That is the message that Israel stands for today, and I know that Nigeria and the Nigerian people share this belief in coexistence and partnership. We look forward to deeper discussions and stronger cooperation between our two nations,” he said
In a panel session, Christian, Jewish, and Islamic religious leaders called for grassroots leadership, youth engagement, and shared moral duty.
Speaking on behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Peter Ogunmuyiwa commended the spirit of inclusivity at the event, charging leaders and citizens to translate principles into practice.
Olusola Akintonde