Nigerian Cardinal Calls for Youth-Led Peacebuilding as Foundation Marks 15 Years of Promoting Dialogue in Africa

“Frankly, when we compare our present situation with where we were ten years ago, it’s hard to say we’ve made much progress,” Cardinal Oniayekan said.

The Nigerian Cardinal insisted that amid the challenges, Africa needs courageous leadership and youth-driven peacebuilding.

“This fellowship is a sacred calling to be courageous change-makers.” He said, and added. “We are not merely training experts; we are raising leaders. Leaders who can bridge divides, foster reconciliation, and inspire lasting and inclusive change.”

The Archbishop Emeritus of Nigeria’s Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja told ACI Africa that “hope may be fragile, but it’s not dead. I see hope every day—in the people who refuse to give up, in communities that still fight for unity, and most especially in the fellows of this foundation.” 

The COFP fellowship program trains young African leaders in peacebuilding, reconciliation, and transformative dialogue. This year, the program received a record 2,023 applications from across the continent and beyond—more than 300 of them from outside Nigeria—though only 35 fellows were selected.

More in Africa

Missionary Congregation Joins Call for Prayers for 265 Children still Held after Nigerian School Abductions

Read the article

“That tells us the relevance of this program is undeniable. The demand for credible peace-building platforms is growing. But it also signals to us that we must find ways to scale up and reach even more people,” the Cardinal said.

He underscored the need for increased local support to sustain and expand the fellowship, saying, “This is our program, addressing our challenges, and shaping our future.” 

“While we are deeply grateful for our foreign donors, the future sustainability of this program lies in local support. We must cultivate a culture of giving within our own communities,” Cardinal Onaiyekan said.

He also lauded partners such as Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the Hilton Foundation, Veritas University Abuja, and the Islamic Bank for their academic, financial, and operational contributions to the program, saying their involvement reflects the foundation’s inclusive and interfaith values.

Over the years, the foundation’s alumni, referred to as Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation of Peace Africa Network of Peace builders (CANEP), have gone on to become key players in peace-building efforts across Africa. 

“They are out there, working in conflict zones, leading interfaith dialogue, implementing grassroots peace projects, and advocating for justice. Their impact is real and measurable,” the Catholic Church leader said.

As the newest cohort embarks on their journey, the Cardinal delivered a message to them, saying, “This is where their journey begins. They should embrace it with passion, humility, and an open mind. The road ahead will not be easy. But they will also grow, transform, and inspire others. They are the torchbearers of a new vision for Africa.”

“This is the reason why we choose to believe in the power of dialogue. We believe in the resilience of our people and the leadership potential that resides in each of them. They come from diverse backgrounds and faith traditions, but share a common calling to become leaders who bridge divides, heal wounds, and inspire change,” he told ACI Africa.

Addressing the new cohorts earlier during the event, the Apostolic Nuncio in Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, underscored the need for justice in the promotion of sustainable peace in Africa.

“The work of peace is never-ending, and we are always inspired by our Catholic social teaching, which reminds us: where there is injustice, there is no peace. Without justice, there can be no peace,” Archbishop Crotty said.

(Story continues below)

He urged the fellows to see themselves not only as peacemakers but as defenders of justice.

“Justice and peace go hand in hand. You cannot have peace without justice. Africa needs peacemakers, and the task of building a peaceful African continent rests on your shoulders,” Archbishop Crotty said.

He expressed hope that each fellow would become a catalyst for change, bringing peace to the communities and people they encounter. 

“Your experience will radiate out beyond you. You will bring influence and transform the lives you encounter. And it is in that way that one person can make a difference,” the Apostolic Nuncio said during the July 29 event.

Abah Anthony John is a Nigerian Catholic journalist with passion for Church communication and media apostolate. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Benue State University, Makurdi in Benue State Nigeria. He has a background in print, electronic and multi-media production.