International Day of Peace: ‘Promote dialogue, understanding for peace’ UN body urges

As Nigeria joins the world to celebrate this year’s International Day of Peace, May Peace Prevail on Earth International (MPPOEI), an affiliate with the Public Information Department of the United Nations, has called for increased dialogue and understanding to foster peace in Nigeria.

Nigerian Representative, May Peace Prevail on Earth, Mojima Etokundo, said that despite challenges facing Nigeria such as insecurity, youth restiveness, insurgency, and banditry, among others, Nigeria has continued to promote national unity.

He said, “We must recognize the humanity in each other regardless of our differences and commit to resolving conflicts through dialogue and understanding rather than violence and aggression.

“To cultivate a culture of peace, we must start with ourselves. As individuals, we must embody the principles of tolerance, empathy, and respect in our daily interactions.”

Vice President of the body, Rika Yoshikawa, pointed out that “The International Day of Peace inspires us all to look beyond our differences and see the shared humanity that connects us.”

While noting the fragility of peace and the need for collective effort to maintain it, Executive Director, MPPOEI, Fumi Stewart, said that all humans are connected in consciousness and that good actions and prayers influence the destiny of all humans.

Guest speaker at the event, Dr. Michael Udam, who presented a paper titled *’How to Cultivate a Culture of Peace in a Multi-Ethnic and Multi-Cultural Country like Nigeria,’* said that Nigeria, with its rich diversity of over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages, presents a unique canvas for painting a picture of peace.

According to him, “Nigeria must invest in education that celebrates our diversity and promotes intercultural understanding.

“By integrating peace education into our school curricula, we can empower future generations with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to live peacefully.”

The event recognized individuals who contributed to peace in Nigeria, crowning them ambassadors of peace.