Rotary International has emphasised the importance of peace in achieving sustainable development, calling for stronger collaboration among governments, institutions and communities to address conflicts and social challenges.
The call was made at a peace summit in Lagos, where the convener and president, Yinka Babalola, described peace as more than the absence of conflict, stressing that it must be supported by good governance, strong institutions and collective responsibility.
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The summit, held at the Victoria Garden Event Centre, brought together representatives of the diplomatic community, security agencies, civil society and other stakeholders, including the Swedish Embassy, Junior Chambers International (JCI) and the Nigeria Police Force.
Building Peace Through Collaboration
In his opening address, Babalola described the gathering as a neutral platform for dialogue and the exchange of ideas, particularly as societies continue to face conflicts, economic pressures and social tensions.
He explained that the summit was expected to produce a lasting stakeholders’ peace network and a framework containing policy recommendations and practical steps for implementation at national and global levels.
Babalola also stressed that peacebuilding requires more than government intervention, noting that individuals, institutions and communities all have roles to play.
Justice, Trust And Human Rights
Speaking at the summit, Sweden’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm, questioned why world leaders often struggle to achieve and sustain the peace they advocate.
She maintained that peace requires addressing conflicts, strengthening institutions and protecting human rights, adding that diplomacy alone cannot achieve it without the involvement of people who understand their communities.
Similarly, Kumbi Wuraola, speaking on behalf of women, described peace as a society where children can learn without fear. She linked lasting peace to good governance, justice and equity, particularly in reducing the gap between privileged and underserved communities.
A representative of JCI, Abisogun Akinbode, also called for responsible leadership and justice, describing them as essential conditions for peace.
Strengthening Police-Community Relations
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, police Assistant Inspector-General Miller Dantawaye stressed the importance of public participation in maintaining security.
He said, “When police officers understand the concerns and realities of the communities they serve, they are better equipped to prevent crime and resolve disputes.”
Dantawaye identified trust, accountability and humanity as important elements of effective police-community relations. He also highlighted the role partnerships could play in promoting youth engagement, education, conflict prevention and public safety.
The summit also featured the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, and representatives of other security institutions, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps
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