A Bauchi based non governmental organization named Search for Common Ground in collaboration with Young Leaders Network has organized a workshop to promote inter religious tolerance and freedom of religion among Bauchi youth.
The workshop was aimed at influencing policy makers to provide conducive environment for religious activities in Bauchi, Plateau and Gombe states.
In an opening remark, Head of Programme and Implementation, Search for Common Ground Mr Godwin Okoko said the theme for the conference:
Fostering an Inclusive Environment for Youth to Advocate for Religious Freedom in Bauchi” is apt considering the heterogeneous nature of the state.
Godwin who applauded Bauchi state government for championing peace, harmony and hospitality sought for support for the programme to succeed.
Also speaking the country Director Search for Common Ground Mrs Fatima Abubakar represented by Mrs Gift Omoniwa said the project will engage youth to promote religious tolerance among them.
” Bauchi state has so many factors and enabling environment for religious activities,…. I enjoined the youth to use the opportunity to do more and looking forward to key actions ….” Fatima said.
In a remark the state Commissioner for Religious Affairs and Societal Reorientation Alhaji Ibrahim Hamza said Governor Bala Muhammad is committed to fight religious hatred in the state.
In his presentation titled the importance of religious freedom for youth” the Commissioner advised the youth to embrace their religious identity with pride and respect for other religious freedom to promote diversity.
He urged parents and guardians to support their children religious exploration and growth.
“There is need for religious leaders to prioritize engagement and empowerment; policy makers to enact and enforce laws for the protection of religious freedom,” Commissioner advised.
The activity had in attendancegoodwill messages represents Cheif Iman of Bauchi, representative of CAN, FOMWA, Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry for Justice