Christmas: Remember Less Privileged, GPFN Urges


*Appeals to world leaders to end wars 



 As the world celebrates the joy and spirit of Christmas, Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN) has urged all to make delibrtate efforts in ensuring needs of the less privileged are met.


This was expressed in a statement signed by the Country Director, Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, made available to our correspondent on Tuesday December 24, 2024.


"As we celebrate Christmas, we urge everyone to remember those who are less fortunate, particularly those affected by conflict, poverty, and inequality. We appeal to you to support our peacebuilding efforts and help us spread love, kindness, and peace to those who need it most.

"In a world torn apart by conflict, violence, and inequality, we are reminded of the urgent need for peace, reconciliation, and healing. This Christmas, we appeal to world leaders, governments, and individuals to work towards a world where peace, justice, and human rights are upheld. 


"Let us strive to create a world where children can grow up without fear of war, violence, or persecution. Let us work together to build bridges of understanding, tolerance, and respect within our families, among communities, nations, cultures, and faiths," GPFN said.


The statement said that in particular, they  appeal to leaders of countries involved in war such as the Israel-Palestine massacre, the Russia-Ukraine war among others to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance.  


"We also join the campaign for the peaceful re-unification of Korea which is fundamental to both regional and global peace. Remember, the world can only be a better place when every course is approached with esteem value and respect for the sacredness of human life and dignity. 


"We can all be right and fighting noble causes but not when they are done in violation of the fundamental human rights of others.   We therefore appeal to all stakeholders and leaders at various levels to be vanguards of peace. 

"Let us remember that peace is not just the absence of war, but a state of being that encompasses justice, equality, and human dignity," the statement said.

It also appealed to leaders across levels of governance in Nigeria to consider the plights of majority of the citizenry by ensuring policies that improve the economy and livelihood thereby reducing the gap between the rich and the poor, thus building trust. 


Emphasizing the interconnectedness between peace and good governance, the group appealed to government to tackle the rising poverty and unemployment which continues to exacerbate tension thereby threatening peaceful coexistence.

"As we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, let us recommit ourselves to being instruments of peace, love, and compassion in our world. May this Christmas season bring us closer to a world where peace, love, and joy reign supreme," it said.

Suggesting ways to get involved, GPFN said, " Support peacebuilding initiatives and programmes in your communities.

"Volunteer and get involved in making a difference anywhere and at all times.

"Share the message of peace and love with your friends, family and neighbors."

According to the statement titled, "Spreading Love, Kindness,  Peace This Christmas Season From Global Peace Foundation, Nigeria" GPFN highlighted the importance of promoting peace, love, and kindness during this special time of the year. 

"As we gather with our loved ones to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of peace, let us not forget the true meaning of Christmas: love, compassion, kindness, and peace. we must also have in remembrance that It is a time for forgiveness and reconciliation.

 "At the Global Peace Foundation Nigerian, we are committed to promoting these values and working towards a more peaceful and harmonious world through our community-driven approach by working with community members, faith leaders, and local officials to establish dialogue, build trust, and forge lasting relationships based on shared values. 


"This we continue to do through;

1. Peacebuilding Initiatives: Our foundation has implemented several peacebuilding initiatives in conflict-affected areas, promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and community development.

2. Youth Empowerment: We have empowered thousands of young people through our peace education and leadership programs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to become agents of positive change.

3. Interfaith Dialogue: Our foundation has facilitated interfaith dialogue and cooperation, promoting mutual understanding and respect among people of different faiths and backgrounds.

4. Families and women in peacebuilding: We, through our women wing, the Global Peace Women Nigeria and other programs empower and strengthen women and families as the building blocks of peaceful societies,' it said.


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