From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP) Alumni in Nigeria have been called upon to leverage their networking capabilities and collaborative efforts to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
The call was made at the IVLP Alumni Connect, held in Abuja, on the theme “Love as a Foundation for Peace and Security.”
The event, sponsored by Global Peace Foundation Nigeria (GPFN), brought together IVLP alumni, peace building experts, and stakeholders to discuss the role of love and collaboration in fostering national stability.
The gathering highlighted the importance of collective action in promoting peace and addressing Nigeria’s social and security challenges.
Rev. John Joseph Hayab, the GPFN Country Director and an IVLP alumnus, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the need for love and unity in overcoming Nigeria’s deep-rooted divisions.
In his speech, he urged attendees to see love not just as an emotion, but as a transformative force for nation-building. “Our country is at a crossroads, and the responsibility to create a peaceful, united, and just society lies in our hands.
“Love is not weakness, it is power. It is the strength that drives meaningful dialogue, build bridges across divides, and restores trust where it has been broken,” Rev. Hayab stated.
He further emphasized the GPFN’s commitment to peace building through its values-based approach, which includes interfaith dialogue, community engagement, and leadership development under the One Family Under God campaign.
He urged IVLP alumni to incorporate the principles into their initiatives, stressing that sustainable peace must be built on shared values and mutual respect.
“As IVLP alumni, we have been privileged to gain exposure to global perspectives on governance, peace, and development. Now is the time to translate those lessons into action.
Let us network, collaborate, and drive the change Nigeria desperately needs,” he urged.
IVLP President, Dr. Baraka Sani, in her remarks, reinforced the message, encouraging members to use their experiences and skills in addressing the country’s challenges.
She noted that the IVLP Alumni Connect serves as a vital platform for members to build long-term influence and implement solutions through policy advocacy, community outreach, and strategic collaborations.
Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), also spoke extensively on the theme, noting that love plays a crucial role in conflict resolution and social cohesion.
“When we choose love over hatred we foster healing, understanding, and progress. Let us commit to entrenching a culture of love and peace in our communities,” he stated.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to integrate love and tolerance into policies and community engagements, further strengthening Nigeria’s peace and security framework.
With Global Peace Foundation Nigeria’s sponsorship and leadership in peace building efforts, the IVLP Alumni Connect 2024 has set the stage for actionable collaborations that will contribute to a more united and peaceful Nigeria.