In celebration of the 2025 International Day of Peace, the Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has called on residents to prioritize dialogue, reject violence, and promote peaceful coexistence across communities.
The appeal was made during a symbolic peace march held in Benin City on Monday, organized by the command’s Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit.
The event, themed “Act Now for a Peaceful World” in line with the United Nations’ global campaign, brought together NSCDC personnel, civil society organizations, and peace advocates to reinforce the importance of civic engagement and nonviolent conflict resolution.
Addressing participants, State Commandant Mr. Gbenga Agun emphasized that the NSCDC’s role extends beyond enforcing laws—it includes fostering civility, protecting human rights, and encouraging community harmony.
“Our name reflects our mission,” Agun said. “We enforce laws with civility, not aggression. In Edo, we strive to prevent violence because peace is the foundation of development.”
Mr. Uchegbu Evaristus, Head of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit, offered practical insights into resolving disputes before they escalate.
He highlighted the value of arbitration, mediation, and negotiation, warning that even minor disagreements—such as a quarrel over a sachet of water—can spiral into larger conflicts if not addressed constructively.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Superintendent Patience Agbonifo stressed that peace is a shared responsibility and a prerequisite for societal progress.
“Peace improves mental health, reduces trauma, and enables development,” she said. “Instead of spending resources on repairing the damage caused by violence, we should invest in building infrastructure and nurturing compassion.”
Agbonifo outlined key principles of peace, including forgiveness, gratitude, prayer, and empathy, asserting that peace is not optional but essential for national growth.
Echoing the message, Mrs. Maria Okoh, Deputy Coordinator of Partners for Peace (P4P) in Edo, pledged continued collaboration with the NSCDC to address emerging challenges. She encouraged officers to carry the message of peace into their homes, workplaces, and communities.
“This gathering is not just symbolic—it’s a call to action,” Okoh said. “Let the message of peace echo beyond today and shape how we live and lead.”
The event concluded with renewed commitments from stakeholders to deepen partnerships, strengthen community resilience, and ensure that peace remains a cornerstone of Edo State’s development agenda.
