Support Youth to build Peace in Nigeria

Center for Faith and Community Development in partnership with The Emmanuel Ivorgba Center, Rooted Change and Ace Support Initiative, is proud to announce today, January 28, 2026, the commencement of the 2026 Cohort of THE VOICE Program, a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering young girls in underserved communities. The commencement ceremony was held at the Center’s Conference Hall, 75 Mai Adiko Road, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. This program is specifically designed to address the numerous challenges girls face, including limited access to quality education, early marriage, gender-based violence, and deep-rooted socio-cultural barriers. Recognizing these obstacles, THE VOICE Program aims to create a safe and nurturing environment where girls can thrive, develop their potential, and become catalysts for positive change in their communities.

At its core, THE VOICE Program focuses on fostering confidence, resilience, and leadership skills among young girls. Through a comprehensive approach that combines education, mentorship, and life skills development, the program seeks to equip girls with the tools they need to overcome societal challenges and pursue their dreams. Participants will gain vital knowledge on various topics such as health, rights, and personal development, while also receiving mentorship from role models who inspire and guide them.

The program emphasizes creating a supportive network that encourages girls to speak up, share their experiences, and develop a sense of agency. By empowering girls to believe in themselves and their abilities, THE VOICE aims to nurture future leaders who can advocate for gender equality and social change. Additionally, the initiative recognizes the importance of community involvement and advocates for cultural shifts that support girls’ rights and opportunities.

THE VOICE Program represents a crucial step toward ensuring that every girl, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to realize her full potential. Through education, mentorship, and support, the program strives to build resilient girls who are confident in their abilities and prepared to face societal challenges head-on. The Emmanuel Ivorgba Center invites partners, sponsors, and community members to join in this vital effort to empower the next generation of young girls and foster a more equitable and inclusive society.

Links:

• Centre for Faith and Community Development

The 2nd International Conference on Church and Society was held from October 11-12, 2025, at the National Merit House in Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria. Under the theme “Bridging Faith and Community: The Role of the Church in Contemporary Society,” the conference gathered over 150 clergy, religious leaders, scholars, and community development experts from around the world to explore the multifaceted role of the church in addressing societal challenges.

The 2nd International Conference on Church and Society, jointly organized by Christian University of Leadership Education and Development Studies (CULED) and Center for Faith and Community Development (CFCD), in partnership with Global Interfaith University, Rudolph Kwanue University, College of Peace and Reconciliation Studies and Godman Soteria Academic of Theology.

The conference opened with keynote addresses emphasizing the importance of faith-based organizations in fostering social cohesion, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Speakers highlighted how the church can serve as a vital bridge between spiritual principles and community needs, especially in times of social upheaval and economic hardship. Throughout the sessions, participants discussed innovative ways the church can promote education, health, and social justice, while also advocating for moral integrity and ethical leadership.

A significant focus was placed on the church’s role in conflict resolution, poverty alleviation, and environmental stewardship. Panel discussions showcased successful community projects led by churches, demonstrating tangible impacts in local contexts. Participants also examined the importance of interfaith dialogue and collaboration in fostering societal harmony in Nigeria and beyond. Workshops provided practical tools for church leaders to enhance their community engagement strategies, emphasizing inclusivity and cultural sensitivity. The conference also addressed challenges such as political interference and resource limitations, urging faith communities to adopt sustainable models of partnership with government and civil society.

The event concluded with a call for renewed commitment to social responsibility rooted in faith. Attendees adopted a declaration reaffirming the church’s role as a catalyst for positive social change, urging ongoing collaboration across religious and secular sectors. Overall, the conference successfully underscored the transformative potential of the church in shaping resilient, equitable communities in contemporary society.