Gombe Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo
"When we work together, Nigeria and Gombe State come out first.," said the governor of Gombe State to a large gathering of Christian leaders in Nigeria. Led by OMNIA Leader Rev. Abare Kallah, Christian leaders from across terror-torn Gombe state commended Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo on his leadership, particularly for his willingness to embrace the church-state cooperation in dealing with violence brought on by Boko Haram.
Omnia Leader
Rev. Abare Kallah
OMNIA's strategy for combating religious extremism in Nigeria has been to involve Muslim and Christian clergy as well as government officials. That cooperation has proven a critical component in reducing incidents of violence. Rev. Kallah told reporters, "When it comes to prophetic declaration we do not fear what comes next. We speak the voice of hope irrespective of the response or the threats."
OMNIA has held three leadership training events in two years, training more than 200 Muslim and Christian clergy and laypersons, including government officials, in its strategic effort to address the conditions that breed terror in Gombe state.
Omnia President interviewed by Nigerian press during ONNIA Training Event.
"Our method of leadership has been especially well received in Nigeria, where we have witnessed progress at every level," said OMNIA president Dr. Shanta Premawardhana. "Former Boko Haram terrorists are finding new pathways to economic security. Muslim and Christian women are working together to create jobs and improve their families and their communities. This kind of progress requires a commitment to those living in Nigeria's margins as well as those in positions of power. Our work there is not finished, but there is great progress toward achieving peace, stability, and hope for the people of Gombe State."
See the story featuring Governor Dankwambo and Rev. Abare Kallah on Nigeria's National News: