John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Archbishop emeritus of Abuja has advised religious leaders in Nigeria to do more of preaching the gospel of peace than drumming the beat of war.

Cardinal Onaiyekan stressed that the country is in very dire need of peace in the land and the religious leaders would do a whole lot of good if they preach more about the message of peace in their various sermons.

The Cardinal who stated this while speaking with news men at the occasion of his 80th birthday celebration in Abuja on Thursday said this were mostly the thoughts he tried to captured in his new book named "Religions for Peace, not War", which was also launched at the occasion.

Speaking further he said, "I am very happy that people keep talking about the need for peace in our land. Peace on every level, in the homes, the local government, the states and in the nation. Because without peace we cannot get progress, the children will not grow well. And we believe that religion has a major role in promoting peace. That is why I put together this reflections.

"Very often people think that religion is one of the causes of conflict, they even blame religion for our situation, but my position is that true religion must be about peace. Whatever you do, even if you should call the name of God a thousand times, and you are hurting your neighbor, killing the innocent, that is not religion. It's something else. It is not only when you shout religion, it is when you behave in kindness, goodness and forgiveness, that is what religion is all about.

"I hope that on my book I have tried to spell out the issues, on why we are having problems in this regards. Because if religion is presented in a way that is not peaceful then it cannot achieve the possibilities of granting peace that we are expecting from it. We must confess that many people talk religion but they are talking war and conflict. I don't believe that that is religion," he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong has eulogised John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Archbishop emeritus of Abuja, describing him as a sound advocate for peace, progress, tolerance and unity.

He said he has personally benefited from the humility, kindness and mentorship of the Cardinal who has consistently been vocal against injustice, violence and all forms of oppression.

The Senator thanked the organisers, Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace for documenting the thoughts and works of the celebrant in the book " Religions for Peace, not War" which was launched to commemorate the day.

He wished the Cardinal many more years of good health, peace and divine protection as he continues to serve humanity and work for a better society.

The occasion also attracted several dignitaries from all works of life who came in their large number to celebrate the religious leader.