By Talatu Maiwada
The Ahmed Galadima Foundation, an NGO, has called for community involvement, education and other stakeholders coordinated effort in fostering peace and peaceful coexistence in Adamawa.
Dr Haphsat Modibbo, Founder of the organisation, who made the call at a press briefing in Yola, said traditional rulers, religious leaders and government agencies play crucial roles in peace building.
The event which brought together stakeholders in various sectors across the state has its theme: Adamawa’s perspective on peaceful and conflict resolution in North East Nigeria.
Modibbo said that the North East region encountered significant challenges due to insurgency, banditry and communal conflicts which led to loss of lives, displaced communities and shattered livelihoods.
According to her, “Peace cannot be imposed, it must be cultivated through diplomacy and involvement of all stakeholders.
“The International community, non-governmental organisations and private partners must partner government to provide education, humanitarian assistance and support for conflict resolution,” She said.
Modibbo said Nigeria was abundantly blessed with resources however, the lack of proper management and extreme disparity in wealth distribution led to violent extremism.
She further called on government to intervene in specific needs of the youth, as peace education and advocacy in conflict resolution were necessary for lasting peace.” She said.
Dr Bashir Aliyu, A Muslim Cleric, said to achieve a sustainable and peaceful coexistence in communities, Christians and Muslims must respect their leaders, be supportive and believe that everyone is from God.
Aliyu said believing in one God would eliminate disputes and misunderstanding while calling for more engagement among traditional, religious and youth leaders in peace building.
Rev. Joseph Babangida, A Christian Cleric said that religious leaders are custodians of authority saddled with the responsibility of initiating peace in times of conflict in their communities.
“Communities where people have lost trust in the government, religious leaders should stand in the gap, by bringing the conflicting parties to the negotiation table.
“They should be able to promote forgiveness and reconciliation among aggrieved parties, as God gave everyone room for forgiveness,” he said.
Babangida further listed education, advocacy for justice, community development, moral and ethical guidance as key components to peace building in any community.
Also speaking Dr Amina Mohammed, Lecturer, Federal Collage of Education Yola, said the importance of education and employment in achieving a peaceful society for the youths cannot be overemphasised.
Muhammed called on government to intensify efforts and ensure youths are engaged in skill acquisitions and sport activities, while advocating establishment of skill study centres at all higher institutions in Adamawa.
Dr Francis Awodoyin a Peace and Conflict Resolution expert, called for the introduction of peace education in schools in Adamawa, saying such knowledge would help instil discipline and peaceful coexistence among younger generation.
Speakers from various sectors of the economy including; education, community leaders, religious organisations, security, gender activist, among others, featured at the event. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
