Mr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, Executive Secretary of, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday said unity and tolerance are key to national security and development.

Ojukwu said this in Abuja at the commemoration of the International Day of Tolerance held in collaboration with the International Federation on Ageing Nigeria (IFAN).

”The day is set aside by the United Nations to promote tolerance among people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

‘It is a day we are urged to raise awareness about cultural diversity and cohesion in an attempt to eradicate intolerance around the world,” he said.

The timing, he said, is apt considering the fact that Nigeria was gearing up for the 2023 general elections and campaigns and discussions may lace with misinformation and hate speeches.

Ojukwu called for actions that will support reconciliation, peace, security, and sustainable development.

” As a consequence, we must make bold statements to encourage tolerance and create awareness of the intersection between reconciliation.

“Also social cohesion, interpersonal and cultural dialogue, justice and human rights protection in Nigeria.

” These are intrinsically interrelated and critical to strengthening democracy, national security, and development,” he said.

Ojukwu said all these could be achieved when stakeholders come together to ensure the government fulfilled its obligation.

Similarly, Mr. Ike Nwobu, National Coordinator, IFAN said:” in a world that is changing quickly and a society of diversity we need tolerance.

” Tolerance is not indifference to others; nor does it imply the full acceptance of all beliefs and behaviors.

” Tolerance does not mean a lesser commitment to one’s own convictions or weakening of resolve.

” Tolerance is an act of humanity, it takes, it is all from universal human rights and fundamental freedoms,” he said.

He said building tolerance and understanding is fundamental for the twenty-first century in an increasingly globalized world.

Nwobu added that true tolerance requires the free flow of ideas, quality education for all, and respect for human rights.

The day is an annual observance day declared by UNESCO in 1995 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance.

It is observed on Nov. 16, every year.