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By Adebowale Johnson
Women’s empowerment, peace building and social justice took centre stage on October 17, 2026, as the Lagos State chapter of the International Parliament for Safety, Peace and Justice (IPSPJ-UN) was inaugurated, with its officials urging members to translate their commitment to peace into practical action.
“We are not saying come and speak the drama of peace. We are not saying come and read a novel. We are saying, “come and be transformed to become a peace-loving woman.”
Those words by Amb. Dr Eugenia Dominion, Global Women Director of IPSPJ-UN, captured the central message of the ceremony held at Isolo, Lagos.
The event featured the induction of new members as ambassadors of peace and justice, the presentation of certificates, appointments to various positions and the recognition of individuals for their contributions to leadership, philanthropy, transparency and human development.
Beyond the ceremonial proceedings, the gathering provided a platform for discussions on women’s welfare, the protection of vulnerable groups, gender-based violence and the responsibilities of individuals and institutions in building peaceful communities.
For the speakers, the inauguration represented a call to move beyond public declarations and make peace, justice and human dignity visible in everyday relationships and community life.
Addressing the inductees, Dominion challenged them to understand that their new positions came with responsibilities that extended beyond titles, certificates and public recognition.
She urged them to demonstrate peaceful conduct in their homes, churches, workplaces, schools, markets and other spaces where their actions could influence relationships and community life.
According to her, individuals who continually create conflict in their private lives would find it difficult to convince others of their genuine commitment to peace.
She also emphasised the importance of inner peace, encouraging women to confront personal grievances, learn forgiveness and cultivate healthier relationships with their families and communities.
Her message placed personal transformation at the centre of peacebuilding, presenting it as a daily responsibility expressed through choices, attitudes and responses to disagreements.
However, sustainable peace cannot rest on women alone. It also requires the participation of men, accountable institutions and communities willing to challenge violence, discrimination and other harmful practices.
In her welcome address, Amb. Mrs Stella Akaigwe, Commissioner for Women Affairs of the Lagos State chapter, described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the organisation’s efforts to promote peace, justice and human welfare.
She identified women’s empowerment, the protection of the girl-child, and the welfare and dignity of women and other vulnerable people as key priorities for the chapter.
Akaigwe called for cooperation among members and relevant stakeholders, stressing that the organisation’s objectives would have greater meaning when translated into practical programmes capable of improving lives.
Her remarks highlighted the need to create opportunities for women to contribute to decision-making and community development while strengthening efforts to protect people exposed to abuse, discrimination and other forms of vulnerability.
For the newly inaugurated chapter, the task ahead will be to turn these priorities into sustained initiatives that reach communities, improve public understanding of rights and encourage cooperation with institutions already working in these areas.
The founder and World International General President of the organisation, His Eminence Cardinal Professor Esapa Sona Joseph JP, highlighted the importance of women’s participation in peacebuilding and the continuing challenges affecting the protection of their rights.
He drew attention to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, adopted in 2000, which recognises the importance of women’s participation in conflict prevention, peace negotiations, peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery.
The resolution also underscores the need to protect women and girls from violence and ensure that their needs are considered in peace and security processes.
The founder discussed the underrepresentation of women in some peace negotiations, gender-based violence and the difficulties that arise when commitments to gender inclusion and the protection of women’s rights are not matched by effective implementation.
He said the organisation’s women affairs ministry would focus on educating, training, informing and sensitising members of the public on issues affecting women.
His address broadened the discussion beyond the induction of members to the wider questions of social justice, inclusion and the practical steps required to protect people whose rights and welfare are at risk.
While public education can help communities recognise abuse and discrimination, lasting progress also depends on accessible reporting channels, survivor-centred services, legal protection and institutions capable of responding effectively to allegations.
In Lagos, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency provides a framework for support and referrals for people affected by domestic and sexual violence. Collaboration with relevant agencies and established civil society organisations could therefore help the new chapter connect its advocacy with existing services and community needs.
The ceremony also featured the induction of new members as ambassadors of peace and justice, with certificates presented to inductees and responsibilities assigned to members within the organisation’s structure.
Among those named were Amb. Ifezulumba Ebere, Humanitarian and Empowerment Director; Nwabunike Nwamaka, Deputy Commissioner for Women Affairs; and Chief Mrs Ifeoma Okpala, Chief Protocol.
Other appointees included Amb. Ego Dara Ezeanowi, Director of People with Special Needs, and Amb. Vivian Emenike, Director of Health and Awareness.
The appointments covered areas including humanitarian support, women’s affairs, protocol, disability inclusion and health awareness.
The event also recognised individuals for their contributions to leadership, philanthropy, transparency and human development. Among those listed as award recipients were Dr Udochukwu Nnajiofor, Professor Nkiru Ifekwem, Eze Timothy Nwanoro, Chief Everest Ozonweke and Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, National Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers.
Chief Iwu Odinaka, chairman of the occasion, congratulated the inductees and encouraged them to become worthy ambassadors of the organisation’s stated ideals.
The presentations and appointments marked the formal beginning of the Lagos chapter’s activities. However, the broader test will be whether the new officeholders translate their responsibilities into meaningful service beyond the inauguration.
From promises to measurable impact
The chapter’s stated priorities, women’s empowerment, the protection of vulnerable people, public awareness and peacebuilding, address issues that require sustained attention rather than one-off events.
To turn these priorities into measurable outcomes, the organisation could develop programmes based on identifiable community needs, establish partnerships with relevant public agencies and civil society groups, and set clear targets for its activities.
Possible initiatives include public education on the rights of women and girls, awareness campaigns on available support for survivors of abuse, community dialogue and programmes that encourage peaceful conflict resolution.
Regular reporting of activities and outcomes would also enable members and the wider public to assess the chapter’s contribution to the communities it seeks to serve.
For the newly inducted ambassadors, Dominion’s message offers a straightforward standard against which their work can be judged: peace must be reflected in conduct and relationships, not merely in titles.
As the Lagos chapter begins its work, the significance of the inauguration will ultimately depend on whether the commitments expressed at the ceremony lead to sustained action, stronger community partnerships and practical support for people whose rights, dignity and welfare require protection.
