On Monday, April 7, 2025, the High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in Nigeria, in concert with the Rwandan Community in Abuja, marked the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi – Kwibuka31 – through a solemn ceremony held in Abuja. This annual gathering drew together approximately 300 attendees, including representatives from the Nigerian government, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society, students, Friends of Rwanda, and committed partners in solidarity.

The theme for this year’s commemoration, “Remember – Unite – Renew”, served as a significant focal point, inviting the international community to engage in thoughtful reflection upon the profound lessons derived from the tragic events of the Genocide against the Tutsi. It further underscored the enduring imperative for a unified stance against the unacceptable phenomenon of genocide denial, the dissemination of hate speech, and all forms of divisive rhetoric and action. Concurrently, the theme affirmed the demonstrable resilience of the Republic of Rwanda and its steadfast commitment to the pursuit of national unity, the restoration of human dignity, and the consolidation of sustainable peace and development.

The commemoration commenced with a moment of profound silence, observed in respectful memory of the more than one million innocent lives tragically lost during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Following this solemn tribute, the symbolic Lighting of the Flame of Remembrance took place, led by Amb. Christophe Bazivamo, the High Commissioner of Rwanda in Nigeria, joined by distinguished representatives from the Nigerian government, members of the Rwandan community, and the esteemed diplomatic community.

In his address, Amb. Christophe Bazivamo conveyed the enduring importance of remembrance, calling for continuous vigilance, action, and commitment at both the national and international levels. He emphasized that preventing future genocides requires more than symbolic gestures; it demands real action, policies, and global cooperation to protect human rights and prevent violence.

“Kwibuka, a Kinyarwanda word meaning to remember, is far more than a ritual of memory. It is a national and global call to confront historical truth, uphold dignity, and fight genocide denial and revisionism. It is a time when Rwanda stands not in isolation, but with the world — with our brothers and sisters across Africa, and with friends here in Nigeria — to reaffirm that Never Again must be more than a slogan. It must be a guiding principle.”

Amb. Bazivamo directly linked the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi to ongoing regional security issues, particularly in the DRC, where remnants of genocidal forces continue to pose threats. He emphasized that these forces have reconstituted themselves under different names but continue to propagate the same genocidal ideologies.

"Today, Rwanda continues to face serious regional security challenges, particularly in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where genocidal forces who fled Rwanda after 1994 remain active."

Amb. Bazivamo reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to combating genocide ideology both within its borders and globally, stressing the importance of working with international partners, such as Nigeria, to foster a peaceful and prosperous continent.

“Today, as we observe growing instability in the region, Rwanda calls for a renewed commitment to the principles enshrined in the 1948 UN Genocide Convention and UN Security Council Resolution 2150.

“These instruments impose a moral and legal obligation on all states to combat genocide ideology, judge or extradite genocide fugitives, and ensure that “Never Again” is not just a slogan, but a commitment. We also note with concern the continued support for genocide denial and revisionism in certain quarters and countries.”

In his closing remarks, Bazivamo issued a global appeal for collective action, underscoring the idea that genocide prevention is a shared responsibility. He made a strong call for nations, institutions, and individuals to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that genocidal ideologies have no place in the modern world.

Also speaking, the representative of the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, referred to the Secretary-General António Guterres's message, which highlighted the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda as a premeditated act, not a spontaneous outburst of violence. Represented by Mrs. Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Fall noted that the majority of victims were Tutsis, besides Hutus and others who opposed the genocide.

“As we reflect on the events that unfolded, we must draw parallels to current societal divisions,” he stated.

He cautioned against the rising narrative of “us versus them” that exacerbates societal polarization and noted that the weaponization of digital technologies promoted hate, which further sowed division and spread falsehoods.

The event also featured a moving documentary presentation, featuring the powerful testimonies shared by survivors of the genocide.

Throughout the Kwibuka commemoration period spanning until July 3, the High Commission of Rwanda in Nigeria will continue engagement with Nigerian institutions and academic communities on the crucial themes of peace, unity, and the imperative of genocide prevention.

As Rwanda, together with its global partners, observes Kwibuka31, this solemn occasion serves as a powerful and unified moment to honor the memory of the victims, to extend unwavering solidarity to the survivors, and to rededicate ourselves, with steadfast resolve, to the enduring commitment that the heinous crime of genocide must never again darken the history of Rwanda or any part of our interconnected world.