From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Peace in South East Project (PISE-P), a dynamic non-partisan advocacy organisation, has said that the report by SBM Intelligence that the region loses up to N13 billion a day whenever people stage a protest is not sustainable.
The group said it emerged with a resounding mission to restore the South East’s rightful place in the national political space and usher in the era of democracy dividends.
It described the South East region of Nigeria as a hub for entrepreneurial activities, as the majority of the people are into various forms of nano, micro, small, medium, and large-scale businesses.
At a virtual media briefing Tuesday, the group said they are determined to attain this objective through a non-kinetic approach built on the Seven Pillars for Sustainable Development.
Project Coordinator, Ogbonna Ukuku said, “The key to our success lies in our commitment to our objectives. These objectives encompass a range of transformative actions, such as reorienting citizens towards national unity, identifying the root causes of conflicts, and developing effective strategies for their management.
“Moreover, PISE-P aims to carry out impactful programs and initiatives to foster national peace and harmony while positively impacting constituencies with the dividends of democracy.”
He added that by strategically planned initiatives that are engaging on all fronts—politically, economically, and socially—the organisation hopes to empower and develop the next generation of leaders.
Ukuku emphasised that the overarching goal of PISE-P is to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in the South East region of Nigeria. Leveraging on the seven crucial pillars of education, agriculture, commerce and industry, infrastructural development, culture and tourism, sports and entertainment, as well as governance and leadership, the organisation aims to drive progress and create resilient communities that facilitate social cohesion.
Speaking about the pillars in detail, the Director of Programmes at PISE-P, Simon Karu, highlighted the organisation’s plans for education. These include establishing and renovating schools in conflict-affected areas, enhancing teacher training, providing teaching materials, and establishing scholarship programs for vulnerable and disadvantaged students.
Karu also emphasised the organisation’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and vocational training for young people through the pillars of commerce and industry. He said PISE-P plans to establish business incubation centres, provide access to start-up capital, strengthen market linkages, support value chain development, encourage the establishment of cooperatives and business associations, and facilitate trade and investment fairs to drive economic growth and job creation.
On his part, Sam Hart said the essence of PISE-P is to guide the people, and “we need help, we need hope and the need for the people to own it for it to be sustainable”.
Hart explained that PISE-P was launched after a report of the SBM Intelligence, which said the region loses up to N13 billion a day whenever people stage a protest in the region. The South East region of Nigeria is known as a hub for entrepreneurial activities, as the majority of the people are into various forms of nano, micro, small, medium, and large-scale businesses.
“A recent study by SBM Intelligence for DevEast Foundation Ltd/Gte, a not-for-profit policy and business advocacy organisation, estimates that in the transportation sector, the South East loses about N10 billion – N13 billion every protest day, and traders also lose between N5.4 billion- N31 billion daily.”
He added, “The South East region, once considered a hub for entrepreneurial activities, is grappling with a myriad of socio-economic issues, including rising unemployment, inflation, and security threats.
“The impact of separatist agitations has led to economic downturns, hindering the region’s potential for growth. PISE-P recognizes the urgent need to address these challenges, restore peace, and unlock the untapped potential within the region.”
The Director of Media, Mary Ikoku, acknowledged the dedicated individuals involved in the formation of PISE-P. She said, “The coming together of this group of passionate individuals showcases a genuine interest in revitalising the social, political, and economic growth of our region. I must particularly commend the Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for his overwhelming support and the pivotal role he plays in the organisation.”
Ikoku emphasised that the task of rebuilding the South East lies not only with political, religious, and traditional leaders but with every individual. She called on all stakeholders to join hands in repositioning the region for progress and development.
She said: “With PISE-P at the helm, the South East can look forward to an era of inclusive political representation, driven by sustainable development and a united vision for the future.”