By Matthew Denis and Ahmed Ajikobi
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commenced a nationwide campaign; ‘Building a people of peace’ targeted at fostering harmonious relationship among Nigerians.
The Kwara State Coordinator of NOA, Olusegun Adeyemi, while delivering his speech at the flag off of the programme at Federal Secretariat, Ilorin said, ” It is our belief that you will leave here with a renewed vigour to act as ambassadors of peace in your homes, workplaces and religious organisations.
“Let me reiterate the fact that peace and harmonious living are the sine quo non for development, economic growth and wellbeing of all and sundry.
“Peace is an issue that cannot be overemphasised because without it, the society will experience crisis and be in chaos without achieving any developmental goals.”
Adeyemi called on all stakeholders to play a vital role in building peace, especially during the period when hate speeches and separatist agitations are being fuelled by some persons and groups in Nigeria.
Speaking, the Kwara State Head of Service, Mrs. Susan Modupe Oluwole stressed that for peace and harmonious relationship to exist in heterogeneous society, there must be sense of equity and tolerance among the people.
She said, “To achieve cordial and peaceful relationship in the society, we should shun tribalism, favouritism, injustice and other vices.”
The HoS called on civil servants to be committed to their duties without disobeying the laid down rules and regulations governing their jobs.
She urged NOA not to relent in the sensitisation of the public on issues that will promote peace in the society.
In his remarks, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Isaac Odewale Albert, who is the Director of Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ilorin, noted that recognition of socio-cultural and religious difference remains the bedrock of peaceful co -existence in the country.
He said, “We are not created to think and act the same way, therefore we must recognise the contributions and opinions of every citizen in Nigeria.
“The country is diversified with different cultural and socio-political settings which tolerance and respect for one another must be factor of consideration to achieve peace.”
