Trust has been identified as a critical pillar for achieving national unity, peace, and sustainable development in Nigeria, as speakers gathered at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, for a free convocation lecture marking the institution’s 45th Convocation Ceremony.
The lecture, held at the Abdullahi Mahadi Conference Centre, drew academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders, students, and members of the public. It featured the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby, former Archbishop of Canterbury, as the guest speaker. The event was themed “Building Inter-Ethnic and Religious Harmony in Nigeria.”
Delivering his address, Welby stressed that trust remains the foundation upon which peaceful coexistence and national cohesion can be built, particularly in a country as diverse as Nigeria. He noted that mistrust among ethnic, religious, and political groups has continued to weaken social bonds and fuel recurring conflicts across different parts of the country.
According to him, rebuilding trust requires honesty, dialogue, and a collective commitment to shared values that transcend religious and ethnic differences. He emphasized that peace is not accidental but the result of deliberate actions by leaders and citizens alike.
Welby pointed out that religious leaders and politicians occupy influential positions in society and therefore have a special responsibility to promote unity rather than division. He urged them to consistently sensitize their followers to the importance of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect, warning that words spoken by leaders can either heal or inflame tensions.
While acknowledging that conflict is a global challenge affecting many nations, Welby maintained that disagreements can be resolved through sincere dialogue and understanding. He encouraged Nigerians to adopt peaceful means in addressing grievances, rather than resorting to violence or intolerance.
The former Archbishop also called on Nigerians to protect the sovereignty of their country, reminding them that no foreign nation can safeguard Nigeria’s future better than Nigerians themselves. He said national unity and self-belief are essential for the country to overcome its security, economic, and social challenges.
“Our differences should not be a source of weakness but a strength,” Welby stated, adding that Nigeria’s diversity, if well managed, can become a powerful tool for growth and national progress.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, reinforced the message that trust must be backed by concrete actions. He explained that trust thrives in an environment where people feel respected, understood, and treated fairly, regardless of their background.
Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, who also serves as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, urged Nigerians to embrace values that promote peaceful coexistence. He stressed that mutual respect, justice, and equity are essential ingredients for national harmony.
He further encouraged citizens to fear God and uphold moral principles as a means of sustaining peace, love, and unity in society. According to him, when individuals act with conscience and accountability, conflicts are reduced and trust is strengthened.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Adamu Ahmed, expressed deep appreciation to the guest speaker for honouring the university’s invitation. He noted that Welby travelled all the way from London to deliver the lecture, describing the gesture as a reflection of his commitment to peace and global harmony.
Professor Ahmed stated that the topic of the lecture was timely, given Nigeria’s current social and security challenges. He emphasized that universities have a responsibility beyond academic training, including shaping character, values, and attitudes that promote unity and national development.
He added that ABU, as one of Nigeria’s leading institutions of higher learning, remains committed to fostering dialogue, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among students and the wider society.
The convocation lecture formed part of activities lined up for the 45th Convocation Ceremony of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Participants at the event described the lecture as insightful and inspiring, expressing hope that its messages would translate into concrete actions capable of strengthening unity and trust across Nigeria.