The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has commemorated the 2025 International Day of Peace with a call for urgent action to build a more peaceful world.
The Abuja event, which also marked the Institute’s 25th anniversary, was held under the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
It brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, and the international community to reflect on global and national challenges threatening peace.
In his address, IPCR Director-General, Joseph Ochogwu stressed the importance of collective action in promoting peace and conflict resolution.
He listed pressing challenges including geopolitical tensions, economic inequality, climate-induced conflicts, violent extremism, and divisive narratives on social media.
Ochogwu also highlighted IPCR’s achievements over the past 25 years, ranging from grassroots mediation and high-level national dialogues to research and training of peacebuilders.
He expressed gratitude to government agencies, civil society groups, and international partners for their support in advancing peace.
Chairman of the occasion, Professor Jerry Gana, underscored the need for secure and defended borders in Nigeria, warning that insecurity would persist unless the Federal Government takes border protection seriously.
He stressed that “justice, equity, and fairness are central to sustainable peace, urging leaders to avoid injustice and uphold human dignity.”
Professor Gana also drew attention to the economic toll of violence, citing the 2025 Global Peace Index which estimated global violence costs at over $19 trillion.
He urged Nigerian and global leaders to pursue peace without delay, noting that “peace delayed is peace denied.”
Delivering the keynote address, Onyinye Onwuka called for urgent action to build peace in what she described as a fragile world.
She pointed to armed conflicts, climate change, pandemics, and the spread of misinformation as factors worsening global instability. She stressed that fragility is not destiny, but a reminder that “the window of action is narrow and the cost of inaction is high.”
The event featured a peace walk, the symbolic release of doves, and awards to outstanding peacebuilders.
Ochogwu used the occasion to thank past and present staff of IPCR for their commitment to promoting peace over the last 25 years.
The 2025 International Day of Peace and IPCR’s 25th anniversary commemoration reinforced the urgent call for justice, equity, and fairness as the foundation for lasting peace in Nigeria and across the world.
PIAK