By Daniel Karlmax
The Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inter-ethnic unity through tree planting as part of efforts to address climate change and ensure environmental sustainability in Kaduna State.
The commitment was made during a tree-planting exercise and cultural showcase organised to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day anniversary at Kasuwan Magani in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The event brought together Muslim and Christian traders from various ethnic groups, including Hausa-Fulani, Adara and Bajju, among others who showcased traditional attire, music and local cuisines such as waina, taliya and shinkafa to promote peaceful coexistence and celebrate cultural diversity.
In his opening remarks, the Co-founder of the IMC, Reverend James Wuye, explained that the initiative was part of efforts to promote peace, unity and mutual understanding among the different ethnic and religious groups in the area.
He urged members of the community to take responsibility for caring for the newly planted trees, describing them as lasting symbols of unity and environmental responsibility.
Wuye noted that the initiative would help foster unity and rebuild social cohesion in a community that has historically been affected by conflict.
Speaking at the event, a local resident, Dr. Jima Mazadu, reflected on the area’s history of violence and the efforts required to restore lasting stability.
According to him, the joint initiative demonstrated an ongoing commitment to replacing past divisions with collaborative peace-building efforts.
“We discovered that we are the only people who can give peace to ourselves. And today, as we mark Independence Day, October 1, in conjunction with tree planting for climate change, it reminds us that since we have come together, we should build faith and hope.
“The planting of the tree is important because it reminds the next generations that our parents, in their days of trouble, agreed to live together and planted this tree. It symbolises peace and unity. As the tree grows, its shade serves as a reminder of calmness and peace,” he said.
A member of the Interfaith Mediation Centre in the area, Farida Ibrahim, expressed delight at the turnout and the display of unity among participants.
“I am filled with great joy today, seeing how both Muslims and Christians have come together, dressed in their respective cultural attire.
“We gathered to showcase our cultures and demonstrate that peaceful coexistence has been firmly restored in Kasuwan Magani. Our cultural differences should not divide us; we are one,” she explained.
Beyond religious and ethnic harmony, Ibrahim highlighted the importance of environmental initiatives, particularly tree planting, in combating desertification and protecting communities from severe weather conditions.
Peace Ambassador and dialogue facilitator for Kasuwan Magani, Gift Jerry, highlighted the dual focus of the initiative: addressing local environmental challenges while fostering social cohesion.
She emphasised the role of trees in combating climate change, improving air quality and supporting the hydrological cycle through processes such as transpiration and precipitation, thereby contributing to a healthier environment.
“This celebration of Independence Day, combined with our cultural food display, will help foster peace and strengthen bonds between Christians and Muslims in our community.
“It reminds us that even as we grow older, we did something meaningful together for our community on October 1, 2026,” she said.
The event also featured cultural performances representing the various ethnic groups in attendance, while community leaders reiterated their commitment to sustaining peace and promoting environmental stewardship.
The programme was organised by the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC) under its non-violence approach to youth and community stakeholder engagement for peaceful coexistence, with support from the United Religions Initiative (URI).
Editing By Godwin Duru
