The International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocate (IFOPIA) has  emphasised that political activities, including elections, campaigns and the declaration of results, must be conducted in an atmosphere of peace.

The organization also called for sustainable peace and harmonious coexistence in Niger Delta region and across the country.

The appeal was made during an event in Port Harcourt where the Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Ordu, among others was honoured with a Peace Ambassador Award in recognition of her contributions to peace building and social harmony in the state.

Speaking at the event, the Global Director of IFOPIA, Dr. Chinaza Ogbuaja, urged Nigerians to embrace peace as a collective responsibility, stressing that national development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.

“When we live in peace, insecurity will become a thing of the past and there will be no killings. Nigeria is the giant of Africa, a blessed country, yet we see the challenges confronting us. Let all hands be on deck. Every individual must contribute in his or her own way to nation-building,” she said.

“Let peace be the centre of attraction in whatever we do. If we embrace peace, Nigeria and Africa at large will witness rapid and unprecedented development,” she added.

She noted that IFOPIA has established a presence in several African countries, including Uganda, Kenya, Ghana and Gambia, through its peace campaigns and advocacy against domestic violence, particularly violence against women.

The organisation, she said, also aligns its programmes with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 1, 2 and 3, which focus on poverty eradication, zero hunger and reduction of maternal and infant mortality by 2030.

Ogbuaja disclosed that Prof. Ordu is the second African woman to be conferred with the Eminent Peace Icon Award, noting that the organisation recognises only individuals with verifiable achievements in peace building and demonstrated integrity.

“Eight persons received the Peace Ambassador Award, including the Deputy Governor of Rivers State. We are here to celebrate peace and to reinforce its importance in society, beginning from the home. Even those in need of help can seek and receive such support in an atmosphere of peace,” she said.