By CSN Media
The newly appointed Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Rev. Fr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo, paid a courtesy visit to the UFUK Dialogue Foundation in Abuja on Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
Fr. Banjo was accompanied by Rev. Fr. Lawrence Emehel, Director of Mission and Dialogue, and Rev. Fr. Peter Babangida Audu, Director of Church and Society/Executive Secretary, Caritas Nigeria.
At the visit, the CSN new Secretary-General in his remarks, emphasized the importance of fostering relationships between religious and cultural organizations to promote national unity. “In a country as diverse as Nigeria, collaboration between faith-based organizations is not just beneficial but essential,” he stated. “We are here to explore how we can work together to build bridges of understanding and to address the challenges that our communities face.”
In his response, the President of the UFUK Dialogue Foundation, Emrah Ilgen, highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to dialogue and its ongoing efforts to create platforms for meaningful conversations across religious and cultural divides. “Our mission is to nurture an environment where differences are not seen as barriers but as opportunities to learn from one another. We are delighted to host the Catholic Secretariat and look forward to fruitful collaborations,” he said.
Also, the General Secretary of Near Foundation, Halil Ibrahim Ince, reiterated the need for joint initiatives on interfaith education, youth empowerment, and community development programs. He proposed ways to address rising concerns about intolerance and violence in many parts of the country.
Consequently, both organizations pledged to pool their resources and expertise to advocate for peace and to implement programs that would have a positive impact on society.
A major highlight of the meeting was a symbolic exchange of gifts, representing the goodwill and shared commitment to mutual respect and cooperation.
A joint statement released after the meeting affirmed the organizations’ dedication to “promoting harmony, understanding, and the common good.”
The UFUK Dialogue Foundation is a non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering dialogue among various cultures and religions.