The National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM-UNESCO), in partnership with Nigeria’s security agencies, has underscored the importance of peace education and cultural reorientation as vital tools to address rising violence and insecurity across the country.
At the opening of a two-day national conference held in Mararaba on Wednesday, Secretary-General of NATCOM-UNESCO, Mr. Lateef Olagunju, reiterated the commission’s dedication to promoting unity and fostering peace in Nigeria. Themed “Peace Education and Cultural Reorientation as a Panacea to Curbing Violence in Nigeria,” the conference brought together stakeholders from the education sector, Nigeria Police Force, Peace Corps of Nigeria, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Olagunju stressed the need to address the root causes of violence through education, dialogue, and grassroots engagement. “In line with UNESCO’s global mission to build peace in the minds of men and women, we are united in our resolve to advance peace, promote cultural understanding, and confront the conflicts threatening our national unity,” he said.
He described the initiative as a proactive step toward embedding empathy, tolerance, and mutual respect, particularly among the youth. He emphasized the commission’s ongoing grassroots efforts such as awareness campaigns, school and market outreaches, motor park engagements, community projects, and roadshows, all aimed at promoting peace and harmony.
“This conference is not just about identifying challenges—it is about crafting sustainable solutions. Peace education and cultural reorientation provide enduring answers to the violence plaguing our society,” Olagunju added.
Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, represented by Dr. Olalekan Babatunde, advocated embracing Nigeria’s cultural diversity as a unifying strength rather than a source of division. He called for a strategic plan to integrate peace education and cultural awareness into the country’s broader development agenda.
Also addressing participants, Mrs. Obiajunu Anigbogu, Director of Educational Planning, Research, and Development at the Federal Ministry of Education—represented by Deputy Director Mrs. Susan Aregbesola—described the conference as timely and necessary.
She highlighted the growing prevalence of misunderstanding, cultural dissonance, and bias, stressing the need for a renewed commitment to shared human values such as peace, empathy, mutual respect, and cultural appreciation.
Anigbogu affirmed that peace education and cultural reorientation are vital in rebuilding the moral and social foundations of society. She noted the effort aligns with UNESCO’s global mandate to promote peace, cultural diversity, dialogue, and sustainable development, adding, “Peace goes beyond the absence of violence; it demands justice, understanding, and shared values.”
ADEOLA KUNLE
