World Institute for Peace (W.I.P) and Nigerian Defence Headquarters Forge Closer Ties in Combating Insecurity

Abuja, Nigeria – On the 20th of July, 2023, a significant meeting took place at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja between the World Institute for Peace (W.I.P) and Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The purpose of the meeting was to explore ways to enhance collaboration and partnership in addressing banditry and other forms of insecurity in Nigeria.

Led by Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, the Executive Chairman of W.I.P, the delegation from the organization included Amb. Sapkota Pradeep, the Ambassador of the Institute from Nepal, who also served as the International Director of W.I.P on I.C.T. Bar. Marcus, a distinguished fellow of W.I.P and a member of the Abuja Chapter, Amb. Chinwe, the Media Director of W.I.P in Abuja, Amb. Larry-jay Olanrewaju, the Director of Protocol, and Hon. Kamaldeen Oloyede, another esteemed fellow of the Institute.

The meeting focused on the proposed initiative titled “Catch them Young / Teach them Peace,” which aims to combat thuggery and violence among young people in Nigeria through peace and security education, research-backed strategies, skill adoption, and the promotion of peaceful ideologies within targeted communities.

During the discussions, the W.I.P delegation emphasized the importance of early intervention and education in nurturing a generation of young peace advocates who can play a pivotal role in reshaping social norms and fostering a culture of non-violence. They presented detailed project plans and budgetary requirements, highlighting how the Ministry of Defence’s support could significantly contribute to building a safer and harmonious Nigeria.

Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa, impressed by the initiative’s potential impact, commended the efforts of the World Institute for Peace and acknowledged the significance of such collaborative initiatives in addressing the root causes of insecurity in the country.

The Chief of Defence Staff expressed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and future of Nigerian citizens and stressed the importance of engaging with local communities to build trust and strengthen the bond between the defense forces and civilians.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing their willingness to work together closely to promote peace, security, and stability in Nigeria. The Defence Headquarters assured W.I.P of their continued support and willingness to explore further ways to tackle insecurity and violence in the nation.

In a statement after the meeting, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, the Executive Chairman of W.I.P, expressed gratitude to Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa and the Defence Headquarters for their warm reception and openness to collaborate. He reaffirmed W.I.P’s commitment to creating a brighter future for the young generations of Nigeria and pledged to work tirelessly in pursuit of a more peaceful and secure nation.

The partnership between the World Institute for Peace and the Nigerian Defence Headquarters holds great promise in confronting the challenges of insecurity and banditry in Nigeria, as both organizations join forces to build a safer and more prosperous nation for all.