By Femi Bolaji

The United Nations Positive Livelihoods Award Centre (UN-POLAC) has recognized the Fulbe Development and Cultural Organisation (FUDECO), a pastoralist NGO, for its outstanding contributions to peace building and nomadic education in Nigeria.

FUDECO, a humanitarian and participatory action research network, operates across 13 states, driving initiatives that have encouraged peaceful coexistence and educational opportunities for nomadic communities.

Speaking at the Human Rights Day commemoration, FUDECO’s Founder and Chairman, Sarli Sadu Nana, expressed gratitude for the recognition.

According to him, “There can be no sustainable development without peace.

“We will continue to urge Nigerians to cherish and promote peaceful coexistence and shun all forms of hate speech, which usually lead to violence.”

The Director-General of UN-POLAC, Prof. Obong Halo B. Eton who was represented by Dr. Z. A. Ogunsanya, reiterated the Centre’s commitment to human rights and sustainable development.

He said, “This event also celebrates UN-POLAC’s recent achievements, including the launch of a comprehensive training programme for Certified Peace Advocates, which aims to equip individuals with essential tools to mediate conflicts and foster understanding within their communities.”

In a virtual address, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the honorees to see their awards as a call to further service to humanity.