By Euclid Myke, Abuja
The Commandant General of the National Unity and Peace Corps/Nigeria Mine Rangers Service (NUPEC/NMRS), Dr. Chinedu Nneji, has called on all citizens to make deliberate efforts to build enduring peace across all facets of the country in order to guarantee a progressive society.
Nneji gave the charge on Friday at the NUPEC/NMRS Headquarters in Abuja, in his address to mark the 2025 United Nations International Day of Peace Celebration, with the theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
According to him, “The concept of peace extends far beyond the absence of conflict to include justice, respect, dignity, and the protection of human rights.
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict, strife and war, but the presence of social justice, equity, fair play, respect for human rights and dignity, food, shelter, and a good ecological environment, among other factors.”
The Commandant General stressed that this year’s theme captured the challenges that humanity is confronted with daily.
He said that from the microscopic society to the macroscopic society – or the entire world – no one can sincerely beat their chest and say that their community has absolute peace.
“This year’s theme is telling us to act now, and not later, for a peaceful world. It speaks volumes for itself, and we are encouraged to act likewise.
“This theme serves as a wake-up call to action for individuals and communities to actively engage and participate in all efforts to foster peace, love, understanding, and non-violence.”
He cautioned against over-reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI), which has the potential to threaten world peace.
According to Nneji, “The advancement in science and technology, especially Artificial Intelligence, if not properly deployed, may have adverse effects on society.
“Therefore, we must not only speak but act now against the negative aspects of scientific innovations in the world.”
The NUPEC/NMRS boss said that citizens can take advantage of this year’s celebration by:
“Speaking Out: It is our duty and responsibility as citizens to challenge violence, hate, and discrimination by truthfully speaking out against these social vices wherever we notice their existence.
“Practising Respect: We are all encouraged at all times and in all places to embrace diversity and respect different voices, opinions, faiths, and perspectives.
“Volunteering: We must all be engaged in community affairs to foster understanding and cooperation. Life without sacrifice is worth nothing, and so we must all engage in volunteerism.
“Verification of Facts: We must imbibe the spirit of verifying everything we read to ascertain its authenticity before sharing, in order to avoid spreading fake news. We must also avoid hate speech.
“Promotion of Dialogue: Wherever we find ourselves, there is a need to spark conversations on the importance of fighting social vices in our society. Issues such as non-violence, disarmament, and global cooperation should be on the front burner of our discussions.
While Nneji acknowledged that peace is not automatic but rather the result of deliberate actions and efforts by citizens, he noted that people often bear the brunt of conflict and war. He added that it behoves every individual to act now, and act quickly, towards building and entrenching enduring peace, tranquillity, and stability.
He said, “Everyone has a specific role to play – from peacekeepers on the front lines to community members and students alike. It is said that ‘he who enjoys a facility must contribute to its upkeep,’ and so, since everyone enjoys a peaceful, cordial, and conducive environment, every member of society must contribute towards maintaining an enduring and sustainable peaceful environment.”
The event was attended by the leadership and officers of NUPEC/NMRS.
