… As Dr. Afolayan Receives Recognition of Service Award
The Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Dr Olukemi Afolayan has called on government stakeholders, civil society, private sector, academia, and individuals to join hands to maintain a peaceful society in commemoration of the International Peace Day.
Dr Afolayan made this statement on Wednesday at the 2024 International Peace Day celebration organised by the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, a glamorous and grand event which took place at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan.
According to NOA State Director, the agency’s approach to creating a peaceful society is rooted in collaborative engagement with different stakeholders across sectors and agencies as well as international bodies.
“In our quest for peaceful coexistence, we have successfully partnered with a diverse array of stakeholders, including government institutions, security agencies, civil society, religious organizations, the private sector, and international bodies. Our slogans — “Change Begins With Me”, “Do The Right Thing” and “Transform Nigeria”— reflect the essence of personal and collective responsibility in building a peaceful society.
While proffering solutions to the problem of fostering a unified culture of peace in a multi ethnic and diverse society like Nigeria, the NOA director emphasizes the use of indigenous practices to engineer peace as well as collaborations through joint programs and partnerships.
“The NOA emphasizes the use of indigenous practices to socially engineer a peaceful and united society. The “Omoluabi” concept in Yoruba culture, symbolizing good character, solidarity, and citizenship, is one such example that promotes these ideals of synergy and harmony.
“We encourage collaboration through joint programs, information-sharing platforms, and resource pooling. By fostering these partnerships, both nationally and internationally, we can enhance collective impact and ensure the longevity of peace efforts.
The Oyo State Director, Dr Olukemi Afolayan was thereafter presented with a recognition of service award as a distinguished guest speaker for the grand occasion of the International Day of Peace by the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, Oyo State Branch.
