The Senior Pastor of Genesis Global Church, Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, has called on Christians across Nigeria to promote peace, tolerance, and mutual respect as Muslims begin the holy month of Ramadan.
Speaking to journalists at the church headquarters, the cleric stressed that respecting people of other faiths is not a compromise of Christian beliefs but a demonstration of spiritual maturity and love.
“As Ramadan begins, we recognise that our Muslim brothers and sisters are entering a sacred period of fasting, prayer, and reflection,” Ogundipe said. “We stand firm in our Christian faith, but we must also stand firm in love.”
He explained that tolerance and acceptance do not amount to surrendering one’s convictions, noting that believers can uphold their faith while respecting the rights and dignity of others.
“Acceptance is not surrender. It is understanding that we share communities, we share a nation, and we share humanity. Our faith teaches us to love our neighbours, not to compete with them,” he stated.
Ogundipe emphasised that peaceful coexistence is essential in a multi-religious society, adding that unity and mutual respect are critical to national stability and development.
He urged Christians to use the Ramadan season as an opportunity to foster unity and understanding rather than division, stressing that believers must reflect Christ’s love in their conduct.
“The world is watching the Church. They are not just listening to what we preach; they are observing how we behave. Let our actions build bridges, not walls,” he added.
The cleric concluded by extending goodwill to Muslims observing the fast, praying that the season would deepen spiritual reflection, discipline, and peace within communities.
“In times like this, love must lead, respect must guide, and peace must prevail,” he said.
As Ramadan progresses, Ogundipe’s message underscores the importance of strong faith anchored in compassion, respect, and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape.