Amina Anebi Kaduna
Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Reverend Joseph John Hayab, has urged pastors and religious leaders in Nigeria to embrace dialogue as the best approach to addressing the nation’s challenges and social ills.
Hayab made the call during an interview at the 60th World Communications Day 2026 Lecture and Award Presentation held on Saturday, May 16, at the Social Media Centre, Independence Way, Kaduna. The event, organised by the Kaduna Archdiocesan Communication Commission, was themed: “Preserving Human Voices and Faces.”
Speaking on the importance of dialogue, Hayab cautioned religious leaders against discouraging peaceful engagement, stressing that dialogue is rooted in divine teaching.
“Dialogue comes from God. God teaches us the ministry of reconciliation, and through dialogue we communicate and understand one another,” he said.
He appealed particularly to Christian leaders who may not believe in dialogue to embrace it, noting that discouraging dialogue often leads to setbacks, while open communication promotes peace, unity, and progress.
According to him, some religious leaders still shy away from engaging in dialogue despite its importance in nation-building and peaceful coexistence.
“The Bible teaches us to come together and reason with one another. Human beings were created by God to relate with one another, guide one another, and live in harmony,” he stated.
Hayab also expressed concern over the growing influence of technology on human relationships, warning that excessive dependence on technology could weaken personal interaction and family bonds.
“Let technology not take away our relationships and love for one another. Even within families today, communication is reducing. When people relate directly with one another, there is love and understanding,” he added.
Speaking further on this year’s lecture topic, “Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Pearl of the Technological Age and Its Risks of Replacing Human Ingenuity and Relationships,” Hayab urged parents to maintain close communication with their children.
“We need parents to communicate directly with their children and encourage them to express themselves freely. Children should be guided to obey the law and make their voices heard through healthy communication at home,” he said.
He encouraged parents to pay closer attention to teenagers and young people, allowing them to voice their opinions and develop their talents through open interaction and understanding.
Hayab, who was also among the award recipients at the event, dedicated his award to individuals and groups promoting dialogue and peaceful coexistence across the country.
“With dialogue, the country and the state can overcome evil. Dialogue encourages unity, peace, and mutual understanding,” he concluded.
0 Comments