In a significant demonstration of solidarity and commitment to peace, over 70 participants, including men, women, and representatives from various sectors, took part in a Peace Walk organized by the UN Women, CLEEN Foundation, and key stakeholders in Benue State.
The event marked the commemoration of the International Day of Peace 2024, a day set aside globally to foster unity and harmony among communities.
The rally, which commenced at the Savannah roundabout and concluded at the Pauline Makka Women Development Centre, was a powerful representation of the collective resolve to promote peace and security in the region.
Participants in the Peace Walk included members of the HeForShe Network, traditional chiefs, civil society organizations (CSOs), media representatives, and gender experts, along with women advocates, the physically disabled, and other peacebuilding practitioners.
In a keynote address during the flag-off ceremony, Dr. Victoria Daaor, Assistant Coordinator of the WPS Women Mediators Benue, emphasized the critical role of women in peace processes.
She noted that women are not only victims of conflict but also pivotal players in rebuilding societies.
“Today, we are walking to show that peace is achievable when women are empowered and included in decision-making,” she said.
Dr. Daaor also underscored the need for women’s voices to be amplified in mediation efforts, as their participation ensures a more inclusive and sustainable peace.
Supporting this sentiment, Mr. Thomas Yange, Coordinator of the Women Mediators’ Media Network, highlighted the essential role the media plays in advancing peace initiatives.
“We will continue to use our platforms to educate and advocate for peace in Benue, ensuring that communities understand the importance of coexistence for societal development,” he remarked.
The rally saw participants holding placards and distributing peace stickers, all advocating for a peaceful and secure Benue State.
Traditional leader Chief Ihwakar Justine Terseer reiterated the commitment of traditional institutions to cultivating a culture of peace. “Peace is a collective responsibility, and as leaders, we must continue to encourage dialogue and unity in our communities,” he said.
Mr. Nathaniel Awuapila, Coordinator of the HeForShe Network, also spoke passionately about the need to support women and children during conflicts, recalling how past violence had displaced many in the region.
“We are here today to advocate for peace because when conflicts arise, it is women and children who suffer the most,” he noted.
He called on all sectors of society to adopt collaboration and dialogue as tools for fostering peace.
As part of the day’s activities, the women mediators, HeForShe Network, and other stakeholders took a bold step towards institutionalizing peace initiatives by inaugurating Peace Clubs in two secondary schools in Makurdi: the Makurdi International Secondary School and the Government Model Secondary School.
The initiative seeks to engage students as peace ambassadors, ensuring that the younger generation plays an active role in promoting peace and harmony in their communities.
The Women’s Mediators Network announced plans to intensify their advocacy efforts, focusing on creating a peace-enabling environment across Benue State.
They also called for increased representation of women in peace negotiations, citing their unique perspectives as essential to resolving conflicts.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Mrs. Magdalene Andor, Director of Women’s Affairs, stated, “As we commemorate International Peace Day, we must recognize that peace is not just the absence of war but the presence of justice and equality. Empowering women is central to achieving lasting peace.”
Dr.Gabriel Akinremi, representative of CLEEN Foundation, appreciated the Ministry’s efforts in coordinating the activities.
He said, “Today is a day we globally seek to promote peace and security because peace is essential. As such, we propose humanity be at peace on all fronts, beginning with family, to foster unity and societal progress.”
Participants at the Peace Walk agreed that achieving peace is a continuous process that requires sustained collaboration and advocacy.
They recommended further community engagement, emphasizing that peace efforts must include all sectors of society, including the physically disabled and other vulnerable groups.
Moving forward, the CLEEN Foundation and its partners plan to expand the reach of their peacebuilding initiatives, ensuring that peace messaging is inclusive and impactful.
As Benue State continues its journey toward lasting peace, the Peace Walk stands as a testament to the power of unity, collaboration, and the critical role of women in building a more secure and harmonious society.
The Peace Walk concluded with a renewed pledge from participants to continue advocating for peaceful coexistence.