Cardinal Onaiyekan on the quest for peace in Nigeria

Author: Caesar Montevecchio

Cardinal John Onaiyekan

On October 3, Cardinal John Onaiyekan from Nigeria visited the Catholic Peacebuilding Network at the University of Notre Dame to deliver a talk, "The Catholic Church as Peacebuilder in Africa." The event was co-sponsored by Notre Dame's Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, the Keough School of Global Affairs, the Kellogg Institute for International Studies, and the Ansari Institute for Global Engagement with Religion.

During his visit, Cardinal Onaiyekan was interviewed by OSV News. When asked about what OSV's American readers should know about Nigeria, he told Fr. Patrick Briscoe: "It’s important for Americans to understand that Nigeria, like many African nations, is rich in natural and human resources but faces challenges due to poor governance and leadership. I would urge Americans to pay attention to the issues affecting countries like Nigeria and to use their influence to encourage good governance and leadership. It’s crucial to support leaders who prioritize the well-being of their people over personal gain. Africa, with its hardworking and brilliant population, can emerge from its challenges with the right leadership. By advocating for justice, love, and peace, both within and beyond our borders, we can work towards a better future for all."