As the 2023 International Peace Day is commemorated globally today, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, in Anambra State has urged Nigerians to strive for the entrenchment and sustenance of peace across all parts of the country.
Mr. Edwin Osuala , the State Commandant of NSCDC Anambra State Command, made the call on Thursday during the 2023 International Day of Peace celebration at the State Command Headquarters, Awka.
The World Peace Day, otherwise known as the International Day of Peace, is an international observance of the United Nations General Assembly, marked every 21st of September.
The day is devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals.”
The celebration commenced with a peace walk around Awka metropolis, public sensitization, before the lectures held at the Command’s headquarters in Awka.
Speaking during the celebration in Awka, the NSCDC State helmsman explained that the 2023 theme focused on how the Sustainable Development Goals are essential to preventing Conflict and maintaining peace.
He also said the theme underscores the collective urgency for unity and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Mr. Osuala appealed to members of the public to utilize the importance and essence of establishing Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit of the NSCDC in addressing any differences they may have, as well as play a part in building a peace culture that will last for generations to come.
” As we celebrate, may we reflect on what the Peace day is asking us to do. In essence, Peace day is asking us to adopt non- violent approach to problems, because they are always best solved through dialogue and negotiations.
“We should try to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. Therefore, I expect us to preach peace and ensure it reaches everywhere in the country through our voice and actions,” he concluded.
In his paper presentation, a resource person, Dr. Ken Nweze Agajelu said peace could be achieved through the culture of tolerance, acceptance, patience and ensuring justice worldwide.
He noted that the 2023 theme was carefully selected as a call to action that recognizes individual and collective responsibility to foster peace.
He said ” Fostering peace contributes to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will create a culture of peace for all.
“The SDGs aim to bring us closer to having more peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, free from fear and violence.”
In his welcome address, the head of Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit, Assistant Commandant Emefu Julius, said peace is essential for the world to maintain law and order and for people to live a life without strife.
He called on citizens to make peace with themselves and with others by being considerate to ensure peaceful co existence that is desired by all generations.
Good will messages were received from ACG Solomon Iyamu, the ACG in charge of NSCDC, Zone K Awka, Mr. Irelewuyi A. A. Sector Commander, Anambra FRSC, Mr. Prince Child Njemenze , Representative of NDLEA, DCI Anumba Mercy, representative of Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Anambra State Command, and Chief Ken Chukwurah, representative of Dr. Gibson Nwosu OON, the Eze Uzu II of Awka and other invited guests.
