The Africa–Israel Initiative (AII) Nigeria has warned against the dangers of hate speech hate speech and ethnic scapegoating, urging the international community to recommit to peace, tolerance and the protection of human dignity as the world marks the 2026 International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
In a statement to commemorate the day, the Country Director of AII Nigeria, Bishop Sally William-Chinebu, described the Holocaust as one of the darkest chapters in human history, cautioning that unchecked hatred, discrimination and global indifference remain serious threats to peace and security.
Between 1939 and 1945, six million Jews and millions of others — including Roma, persons with disabilities, political dissidents and other minorities — were systematically murdered by the Nazi regime.
William-Chinebu said Holocaust remembrance Holocaust remembrance goes beyond recalling history, stressing that it is a moral responsibility to confront intolerance and prevent future atrocities.
“The Holocaust reminds the world of the devastating consequences of hate speech, ethnic scapegoating and state-sponsored dehumanisation when left unchallenged,” she said.
She noted that the lessons of the Holocaust remain urgently relevant in a world grappling with terrorism, insurgency, ethnic conflicts, religious extremism and rising antisemitism.
According to her, global peace is sustained not only through military strength and diplomacy, but through shared values such as respect for human dignity, protection of minorities, interfaith understanding and the rule of law.
She added that Holocaust remembrance strengthens global resolve against genocide, promotes intercultural dialogue and encourages cooperation among nations to prevent crimes against humanity.
The United Nations designates 27 January annually as International Holocaust Remembrance Day to honour the victims and reaffirm global opposition to genocide, antisemitism and all forms of hatred.
In Nigeria, the Embassy of Israel, in collaboration with partners, is marking the day with commemorative activities focused on remembrance, education and moral responsibility.
On the occasion, AII Nigeria joined the United Nations and the Embassy of Israel in Nigeria in delivering a united message rejecting hatred, genocide and the dehumanisation of any people.
William-Chinebu stressed that the phrase “Never Again” must go beyond rhetoric and be upheld as a global commitment.
“Silence in the face of hatred is never an option. Global peace and security depend on our collective courage to act,” she said.
By : Adamu Abuh @Afrimarknews
