By Hajara Usman
Stakeholders expressed their concern over the harmful effects of inequality, social injustice, and misinformation on peaceful co-existence in Gombe and Nigeria at large, calling for renewed efforts to address these issues
They made the call in Gombe on Tuesday during the commemoration of International Peace day 2024 at Gomb3 state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Prime times reports that International Peace day is being celebrated 21st of September and 2024 theme was “Building Lasting Peace through Dialogue and Cooperation’.
Alh. Alhassan Yahya, the Coordinator of the Women, Peace and Security Gombe Media Network, emphasised the importance of collective action to shift the current narrative.
Yahya, represented by Comfort Mukollo, said Peace Day, originates from the United Nations’ (UN) efforts to promote global peace and ceasefires
He added, “This day serves as a reminder of the significance of peace, tolerance, and collaboration in working towards a fairer and more just world.
” As we celebrate International Peace Day, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting peace, justice, and human rights for all.”Yahya highlighted the 2024 theme’s focus on inclusive dialogue and joint efforts to resolve conflicts and achieve lasting peace.
He stated, “Peace is not simply the absence of war, but a state that enables individuals, communities, and nations to flourish.”He called for renewed adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, stressing the need to uphold human dignity and resolve disputes peacefully.
The Network urged collective action on global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and social injustice, which pose serious risks to global peace and security.”We stress the importance of inclusive and respectful dialogue in resolving conflicts and fostering mutual understanding.
” We also recognise the crucial role young people play in peace-building and encourage their active participation,” Yahya said.He also urged governments, civil society, and individuals to support policies that promote peace, justice, and human rights. “Engage in peace-building initiatives and conflict resolution,” he said.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Asma’u Iganus, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Barrister Sada’atu Ishaya, praised UN Women for their initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women.
Iganus commented, “We appreciate the support from UN Women, but we hope they will continue to assist us in maintaining the peace we currently enjoy. It is also crucial to empower young people, as idle hands can lead to negative outcomes,” she said.
Alh.Abubakar Doho, the Village Head of Doho and a HeForShe advocate, also commended UN Women for their backing and encouraged more men to join efforts to enhance women’s lives.Doho noted that involving women in traditional councils as titleholders has contributed significantly to maintaining peace in their communities.
“Whenever we seek information, we often involve women titleholders, who have proven to be instrumental in promoting peace. There are many women in these roles, and they have been very effective,” he added.