Posted by Peace Corps Nigeria (PCN) National Commandant Dickson Ameh Akoh blames inadequate administration and mismanagement of resources for the widespread violence that has swept the country.
But he urged the country’s disgruntled youth and other groups to put down their weapons and return to peaceful coexistence if they want to see the country’s development efforts succeed.
Specifically, Ambassador Akoh urged young people to work with government officials to put an end to banditry, abduction, cultism, and other social vices that are preventing the country’s progress.
With this year’s subject being “Actions for Peace; Our Ambition for the Global Goals,” the Peace Corps director delivered a speech in Abuja to commemorate the United Nations International Day of Peace.
Akoh urged his fellow Nigerians to use this year’s International Day of Peace to consider the problems facing their country and to work together to create a better, more peaceful world for future generations.
He emphasized that the significance of the day should serve as a reminder to everyone to work towards protecting human rights in order to construct peaceful and inclusive society free from reliance on ethnic or religious feelings.
He remarked, “We are up against a profound, singular enemy, and that is insecurity. Bad government, inadequate resource control, ethno-religious fanaticism, unemployment, human rights violations, and the excessive ambition of egocentric politicians are major contributors to the current state of instability in Nigeria.
With the goal of promoting long-lasting peace, security, and stability, “it is imperative for us to come together and build stronger connections, both locally and internationally.”
Let us make peace not merely a goal, but a driving force in our lives. Additionally, let us continue to pray for the repose of the souls of our gallant troops, whose lives were tragically cut short defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, as we keep our thoughts and prayers with those on the frontlines of the fight against all forms of insecurity.
Ismaila Abubakar, permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth, also spoke at the event, saying that peace and tranquility are prerequisites for any real progress to be made.
Vandalism, banditry, unrest, and kidnapping are all symptoms of a lack of progress and stability, in his opinion.
The Permanent Secretary issued a call to Nigerians, through their religious institutions, to work toward a nation free of violence by spreading messages of peace, upholding peace, and acting as peace ambassadors.