WACORPAI Holds 4th Convocation and Peace Ambassadorial Awards Ceremony
The Wazobia Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy Initiative (WACORPAI) successfully held its 4th Convocation and Annual Peace Ambassadorial Award Ceremony on Saturday, 26th April 2025, in Abuja. The event brought together stakeholders who are actively seeking genuine peacebuilders across the country, working towards sustainable solutions in the face of ongoing challenges.
This prestigious national event celebrates the core values of unity, inclusiveness, and selfless service, honoring Peace Ambassadors from all walks of life irrespective of tribe, faith, gender, or political affiliations.
Comrade Garba Suleiman, a key organizer of the event, thanked all participants, acknowledging their valuable contributions. He promised that all suggestions and observations made would be addressed in future activities to ensure continued growth and success.
Ambassador Garba also extended his immeasurable gratitude to Amb. Alh. Aminu Wambai (Wakilin Zazzau), a mentor, philanthropist, and voice for the voiceless. He acknowledged that despite his tight schedule, Wambai always made himself available to support their activities, adding an extra layer of significance to the ceremony.
Among the notable personalities awarded as Peace Ambassadors were economists, financial experts, security experts, industrialists, entertainers, religious leaders, entrepreneurs, thinkers, and creators—individuals who have transcended boundaries and overcome significant challenges to leave lasting
legacies.
The Notable Awardees Whose Efforts Transcend Boundaries, are:
Navy Capt. Umar Bakori (RTD), Commandant General of the Nigerian Vigilante, who was surprised with the Nigeria Peace Ambassador Award for the first time in WACORPAI’s history, marked by a new customized plate number.
Amb. Dr. Evang. Love Archibong JP, honored with Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA), Eminent Woman of Integrity, and Doctor of Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy/Humanities.
Amb. Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe, who received the Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA) and Eminent Man of Integrity for his selfless, unbiased service to humanity.
Amb. Dr. Hon. Abubakar Baba Musami, awarded the Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA) and Doctor of Political Science for his outstanding contributions to peace and conflict resolution.
Amb. Dr. Paul Monday Onoja, a youth leader and advocate for the voiceless, who was honored with Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA) and Doctor of Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy Initiative.
Amb. Favour Uduak, a young lady whose selfless service to humanity earned her recognition as Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA).
Amb. Dr. Davina Rose Stevens, a leader in the diaspora, philanthropist, and coordinator, honored as Eminent Woman of Integrity.
Amb. Dr. Emeka Ogbonna, recognized with the Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA) and Doctor of Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy.
Amb. Dr. Nooreen May Emelonye, honored with Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA) and Doctor of Public Health.
Amb. Dr. Kobe Akanmu, who received the Eminent Peace Ambassador (EPA) and Doctor of Christian Counseling.
In a remarkable collaboration, WACORPAI partnered with DIIBS International University to confer Honorary Doctorate awards to deserving individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to peacebuilding, leadership, and humanitarian efforts. This partnership underscores the importance of recognizing excellence and dedication in various fields, particularly in areas that promote social good, integrity, and a commitment to positive change.
The recipients of these prestigious Honorary Doctorates, exemplify the values of resilience, selflessness, and the pursuit of peace. These exceptional individuals have proven that dedication to peace, conflict resolution, and advocacy can transcend boundaries and leave a lasting impact on society.
Comrade Garba Suleiman, a key organizer of the event, thanked all participants, acknowledging their valuable contributions. He promised that all suggestions and observations made would be addressed in future activities to ensure continued growth and success.
This year’s Annual Peace Ambassadorial Award highlighted and honored individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to peacebuilding, humanitarian service, conflict resolution, human rights, and social justice across Nigeria.
This prestigious national event celebrates the values of unity, inclusiveness, and service, honoring Peace Ambassadors from all walks of life – regardless of tribe, faith, gender, or political affiliation.
Stakeholders from various walks of life were present at the event to demonstrate their collective commitment to peacebuilding and to serve as a bridge for sustainable peace and development, especially in the face of Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. Notably in attendance was Navy Captain Abubakar Bakori Umar (Rtd.), the National Commandant of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, alongside other dignitaries, community leaders, and peace advocates, all of whom lent their voices to the growing call for unity, collaboration, and proactive conflict resolution.
Navy Captain Abubakar Bakori Umar (Rtd.), the recipient of the Peace Ambassador Award, expressed that the honor would reinforce his commitment to doing even more for peace. He emphasized that any honor received for peacekeeping is worth celebrating and acknowledged that the recognition was not solely his, but a collective effort of his men, who have worked tirelessly alongside him in the pursuit of peace.
Navy Captain Abubakar Bakori Umar (Rtd.), the National Commandant of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, speaking with newsmen, emphasized that the country is in desperate need of peace and requires individuals who are willing to sacrifice their energy and passion in the pursuit of peacebuilding.
In his address to the newsmen, National President, Ambassador Garba Suleiman Marafa, commended the awardees for their exceptional contributions to peacebuilding and humanitarian service. He emphasized that they were selected based on their pedigree and verifiable performance in their respective fields, while noting that having peacebuilders across Nigeria is his earnest desire.
Dr. Suleiman Marafa, lauded the awardees for their unwavering commitment to peace and unity. He emphasized the critical role of collective efforts in fostering a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. Ambassador Marafa noted that the initiative is designed to inspire individuals and organizations to engage more actively in peacebuilding efforts and to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“We recognize them not just to honor their efforts, but to encourage them to do even more and to inspire others in society to follow their example,” Ambassador Marafa emphasized. “Many have wealth, but lack the heart for humanitarian service we celebrate those who truly make a difference.”
Suleiman noted that WACORPAI will continue to promote a culture of peace and encourage active citizenship as key pillars for building a more harmonious and just society, as we work toward rescuing Nigeria from the grips of oppression.
Ambassador Marafa emphasized the importance of empowering grassroots peacebuilders who can proactively manage conflicts before they escalate into crises, as has often been witnessed across the country.
Comrade Garba further clarified that WACORPAI’s awards are strictly merit-based, emphasizing that “this award cannot be bought with money.” He stressed that only individuals with verifiable performance and genuine impact are considered, while also calling on all citizens to actively participate in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts for the betterment of the nation.
“This recognition is not just an honor, but a call to further service,” he said, urging the awardees to remain steadfast in their commitment to national unity and to serve as beacons of hope and harmony in their communities.
"He stated that the Wazobia Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy Initiative (WACORPAI) is a non-governmental organization committed to promoting peace, unity, and sustainable development across Nigeria. Through a range of programs and initiatives, WACORPAI works to address the root causes of conflict and to foster dialogue and collaboration among Nigeria’s diverse communities.
The award ceremony was more than just a milestone for WACORPAI—it showcased the convener’s ability to unite the awardees in a spirit of royal camaraderie. The peace-focused conversations, meaningful connections made, and the atmosphere of mutual respect and inspiration created an experience that will be cherished for years to come.
As the event unfolded, it became evident that the celebration of the Eminent Peace Ambassador awards was more than just a milestone; it was a testament to the unwavering dedication of the awardees in building a shared future for Nigeria, managing conflicts, and fostering peaceful coexistence. It also showcased the incredible ability of the organizers to bring together technocrats, leaders, and visionaries in joyous camaraderie, united by their shared commitment to peace and social progress.
The overwhelming response from attendees, who left the event both fulfilled and eager for more, spoke volumes about the success of the convocation and the anticipation for future engagements.
As the ceremony went, it became evident that peacebuilding and conflict resolution are essential instruments for addressing the insecurity that has plagued our great nation for years.
