2nd Annual IGPCM Conference and Induction Ceremony holds in Abuja as Stakeholders harp on Peace Building
IGPCM Conference 2024 underscored the importance of cultivating a culture of peace building amidst the challenges facing Nigeria and the global community.
The annual meeting serves as a global call to promote peace and non-violence. This year’s theme, “ Peace building,” highlights the necessity of fostering dialogue, unity, and reconciliation across communities worldwide.
It aims to discuss ways and means of reducing the tone of antagonism, division, and separatist agitation to entrench a culture of peace, unity, and tolerance.
Dr Asiwju Adetuberu Oludotun while speaking with Newsmen, In his remarks, reflected on the timeliness of this theme, given the numerous conflicts and crises plaguing Nigeria and other nations.
“The world is currently grappling with a multitude of challenges, from economic downturns to natural disasters and violent conflicts
“Nigeria has not been spared from these issues, with violent conflicts leading to significant loss of life and ongoing humanitarian crises. It is imperative that we build resilience and a culture of peace within our communities.”
Dr Asiwju maintained that “No single entity can achieve peace in a nation as large and diverse as Nigeria. The IGPCM, along with our partners, is committed to working together through various intervention programs to promote peace and inclusive development
Acknowledging the government’s role, Dr Asiwju Adetuberu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ which prioritizes peace and security as essential components of national progress.
Dr Asiwju Adetuberu also hinted that they have embarked on several intervention programmes towards rebuilding peaceful relations in conflict areas through empirical researches to further understand the roots of violent conflicts that have prevailed in the six geo-political zones of the country.
"He urged all Nigerians to support the government and peacebuilding initiatives, emphasizing that every citizen is a stakeholder in the quest for peace.
"He emphasized the need to incentivize youth and women-led peacebuilding efforts and address harmful stereotypes against these groups.
"He stressed that the best way to prevent conflict and violence is by priotising peace building at both the formal and informal levels in the country.
Ambassador Joshua Teryila Tarhule, the registrar of the institute lauded the Awardees and the participants while described this year convention as huge success
He said Peace is a collective effort, and all hands must be on the ground if we can build a harmonious future.
Amb Joshua is calling on all stakeholders to be part of initiatives like this that create productivity and promote national intelligence.
" He reiterated commitment that IGPCM and others Advocacy groups in Nigeria will working together to ensure peace building is promoted
Moving forward, he said the institute is committed to promoting peace and training peace builders.
He charged the Awardees and inductees to be a worthy ambassador of the institute at all levels.
Hon. Justice O.R. Haruna, in her delivery speech on the Role Of Women In Peacebuilding in Nigeria, said Peacebuilding refers to actions taken to address the root causes of conflict, prevent the recurrence of violence, and lay the groundwork for sustainable peace.
" She said effective peacebuilding involves addressing underlying causes of conflict, such as inequality, political exclusion, and human rights abuse.
The role of women in peacebuilding is undeniable. From grassroots movements to high-level negotiations, women have shown their ability to drive change, mediate conflicts, and foster reconciliation.
"She described Women as Negotiators and Mediators. Although formal peace processes have historically excluded women, many women have assumed crucial roles as negotiators and mediators in conflict zones. Women’s participation in peace negotiations often brings unique perspectives focused on long-term stability, human rights, and social justice. In Northern Ireland, for instance, the Women’s Coalition advocated for a peace process that was inclusive and addressed the needs of women and marginalized groups.
She maintained that Women are Agents of Societal Healing and Reconstruction. After conflict, women are often the ones to lead efforts in rebuilding communities, not just physically but socially and culturally. In Rwanda, for example, women were central to national reconciliation efforts, providing psychosocial support to survivors and helping to establish gender-sensitive policies that promoted healing and social reintegration.
Their inclusion in peace processes leads to more sustainable and inclusive peace. Yet, barriers to their full participation remain, and overcoming these challenges is crucial for the future of peacebuilding.
As demonstrated by successful cases in Liberia, Rwanda, Northern Ireland, and Nigeria, women’s leadership and contributions are vital to achieving lasting peace and social justice. Gender-inclusive peacebuilding frameworks are not just beneficial—they are essential for ensuring that peace processes address the needs of all and are capable of creating lasting, transformative peace.
As the event unfolded, it became evident that this year annual convention was more than just a milestone; it was a testament to the Institute of Global Peace and Conflict Management in pursue of peace Building in Nigeria for the shared future and its ability to bring Awardees and inductees together in joyous camaraderie. The overwhelming response from the attendees, who left the event fulfilled and yearning for more, spoke volumes about the success of the induction ceremony and the anticipation for future engagements
