As the world celebrates the 2022 International Peace Day, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) Anambra State Command has urged Nigerians to embrace peace, avoid divisive comments, work to end racism and promote equality in the interest of the development of the country.
The Anambra State Commandant, Isdore Chukwudi Chikere, made the call in Awka at a one-day sensitization and awareness Seminar organized by the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit of the Command.
The programme, which commenced with a Peace Walk within Awka Metropolis ended with the convergence of all officers and men at the Command Auditorium for Lectures on the 2022 theme “End racism, Build Peace.“
Speaking on the importance of the International Peace Day Celebration, the Commandant highlighted the importance of combating racism and building societies in which all people are treated equally.
“We have seen painful reminders in the past that the fight against racism and the struggle for equality are far from over in many other parts of the world. Thus, now is the time for all of us to reflect on what we can do to address these continuing problems, to determine how we can contribute to meaningful solutions, individually and through our collective efforts so that one day all people will live in a just and equitable world. NSCDC will always try its best in creating awareness seeking to address inclusion and tolerance, which will help to end racism, promote equal rights, and social justice in order to build lasting peace,“ he said.
The NSCDC State helmsman called on all Nigerians to jettison violence and conflict for dialogue and peace, adding that at a time when conflict and violence often monopolize our news cycles, the International Day of Peace provides a globally shared date for individuals to alter their behaviour, which, when multiplied across cities and nations, has the potential to develop a more peaceful society.
While delivering the welcome address, the head of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit in the State Command, Assistant Commandant Okoye – Iheme CN said the International Day of Peace (or World Peace Day) celebrated annually on September 21 seeks to strengthen the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. According to her, sustainable peace can only be achieved when all sides to a conflict have the capacity to find outcomes together.
She called on all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace.
The guest speaker Dr Ken Nweze Agajelu, a lecturer from Federal College of Education ( Technical) Umunze centred his presentation on “Racism and African Development: The Nigerian Experience.”
He encouraged citizens to end all forms of racial discrimination in all ramifications devoid of ethical inclination.
PIAK
