The United Nations’ Economic and Social Council (Peace and Positive Living Awareness Centre) has conferred the Distinguished World Profession Peace Advocate (WPPA-UN) award on the General Manager, Monitoring, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Rasaq Babatunde Salau, a notable Rotarian. He was presented the award at its Abuja Peace Conference held to celebrate the 2025 World Peace Day.

The ceremony with the theme: “Culture of Peace, a bedrock for social integration and sustainable development in Nigeria” was chaired by former Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro.

In his charge, Okiro tasked the recipient with the function of identifying and supporting structures that will promote peace aside playing the role of a diplomat, advocate, mediator, councilor, negotiator and adviser.

“Your responsibilities include fostering a culture of peace, combat and stand against all forms of discrimination, teach respect for human rights and dignity of the person among others.

“You are henceforth recognized as a Chartered Peace Advocate with strong recommendation and respect globally.” Speaking on the award, Salau said it has saddled him with the responsibility of ensuring that peace flourishes globally, starting from his immediate environment, because where peace thrives, progress is certain.

“I will like to add that it is one of the statutory responsibilities of government to also make sure that our environment is peaceful through establishing the rule of law and enforcing it without respect of persons. The government should also ensure there is instant punishment for offenders to serve as deterrent.

“Citizens are also expected to respect and obey the rule of law, pursue the ideal of peaceful coexistence while the government ensures that everyone is equal before the law,” he said.

Salau believed that if one can achieve peace in his family, in the neighborhood as well as in the state, it would not be difficult to achieve peace in the country, adding that it is fundamental for every citizen to know that no one has the right to deprive another person the right to live while the government should also ensure that anyone who breaks the law is instantly and decisively dealt with.