By Remi Johnson – Abuja
The Commandant General of the National Unity and Peace Corps (NUPEC) and Nigeria Mine Rangers Service (NMRS), Dr. Chinedu Nneji, has called on Nigerians and the global community to embrace dialogue, global cooperation, and urgent actions that promote peace, justice, and unity.
He made the call at the Headquarters of NUPEC/NMRS, Area 2, Garki, Abuja, during the 2025 United Nations International Day of Peace celebration themed “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
“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,” he said, insisting that the challenges presently confronting Nigeria and the world call for immediate action.
Dr. Nneji emphasized that peace transcends the absence of war or conflict, noting that it includes justice, equity, human dignity, and access to basic needs such as food, shelter, and a healthy environment.
“There is nothing more factual than this year’s theme in our present world. From the family unit to the global stage, no community can boast of absolute peace. That is why the call to act now, and not later, is critical,” Nneji said.
The NUPEC Commandant General stressed that building peace requires deliberate action and collective responsibility. He particularly emphasized dialogue, collective action and cooperation as vital tools for resolving conflicts and fostering harmony within and beyond Nigeria.
He further urged non-state actors to embrace dialogue and lay down their arms in the interest of national unity.
“We call on non-state actors to lay down their arms and embrace Peace in Nigeria.”
“Peace, as we are fully aware, 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 good ecological environment among other factors,” Nneji said.
Outlining practical steps to sustain peace, Dr. Nneji encouraged Nigerians to speak out against hate speech, respect diverse voices and perspectives, volunteer in community initiatives, verify information before sharing to curb fake news, and promote dialogue on non-violence and cooperation.
He also underscored the need to spark meaningful conversations on social vices, adding that issues such as non-violence, disarmament, and global cooperation should remain at the forefront of national and international discussions.
Dr Nneji also cautioned against the misuse of scientific and technological innovations, particularly artificial intelligence, warning that if not properly managed, they could have adverse effects on society.
“Therefore, we must not only speak but act now against the negative aspects of the scientific innovations in the world,”
Dr. Nneji concluded by reaffirming that peace can only be achieved through sustained dialogue, collaboration, and global solidarity.