By Olayinka Latona

Members of the Peace & Conflict Prevention (PCP) Committee of Rotary International District 9112 have advocated for peaceful conflict resolution at the family, community, and national levels as a pathway to progress and sustainable development across all sectors.

The Rotarians made this call during a symposium titled “Promoting Dialogue, Mediation & Lasting Peace,” held at Keystone Bank Hall, District Office, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the committee, Rotarian Dele Ojogbede, emphasized that peace is crucial in addressing the issues of insecurity, injustice, insurgency, kidnapping, and other crises affecting Nigeria and other parts of Africa.

Ojogbede highlighted that harmonious relationships among citizens are essential for societal peace and development.

“We Rotarians are one of the few groups in society that stabilize the system by encouraging people to live in harmony and supporting the less privileged,” he stated.

He further noted, “There is no time more important than now to talk about peace, both locally and internationally. We are witnessing unrest all over the world. Locally, the northern part of Nigeria has been plagued by Boko Haram, resulting in daily loss of lives.”

Guest speakers at the symposium urged Nigerians to focus on activities that foster peace and unity rather than dwelling on divisive issues.

Abigail O. Ojogbede, while speaking on “Bridging the Divide – Mastering Conflict Resolution & Prevention,” stated that peace is achievable if Nigerians are intentional and committed to it.

“In our relationships, from family members to members of society, we all understand that peace and progress cannot thrive in chaos,” she said.

Ojogbede further stressed that peaceful communication and actions can lead to societal development and a better quality of life for all.

“With peace, development, progress, and upliftment will come, creating a better society for everyone,” she concluded.

Rotarian Theresa Osime Onyido, speaking on “Resolving Property Disputes Through Mediation & Negotiation,” emphasized the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in maintaining peaceful coexistence.

Onyido highlighted the benefits of ADR, noting that it preserves relationships, reduces costs, and promotes stability.

“There is a need for more ADR centers. Instead of taking property disputes directly to court, parties can visit ADR centers to foster peace and stability in our society,” she explained.

The symposium ended with a strong call for collective efforts in promoting peace and unity as vital tools for national growth and sustainable development.