On Tuesday, 23rd September 2025, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, commemorated the International Day of Peace at their headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan. The event, held under the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” brought together key stakeholders, community leaders, and citizens in a unified commitment to fostering peace and resolving conflicts. The International Day of Peace, observed globally on September 21st, serves as an annual reminder of the importance of peace, non-violence, and the collective responsibility of every individual, organization, and government in building a world free from conflict.
The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Minister of Power, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Comrade Femi Awogboro; Senator Sarafadeen Abiodun Ali represented by Mr Adebowale Funso; Hon. Alawode Emmanuel Oluwole, Executive Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government Area; His Royal Highness Ajofe (Dr.) Friday Okoliko, President of the Non-Indigenes Traditional Council of Ibadan and Oyo State (NITCIOS); HRH Samuel Anigboro, Okobaro of R’Urhobo of Ibadan Land. And Alhaji Ahmadu Haruna Maiyasin, Sarkin Sasa, Ibadan.
In his keynote address, Commandant Augustine Padonu, State Commandant of NSCDC, Oyo State Command, reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to fostering peace and security in Oyo State. He emphasized the importance of immediate action in addressing the root causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, and injustice. Commandant Padonu called on everyone, government, institutions, and individuals, to work together toward a future of peace, inclusion, and mutual respect. He also outlined the critical role of NSCDC in promoting dialogue, resolving disputes, and protecting the lives and property of Nigerians. He further encouraged all stakeholders to join efforts in creating a peaceful and harmonious environment in both urban and rural communities.
Earlier, DCC Olanrewaju Toriola, Head of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit (PCRU), delivered the welcome address. He welcomed all the distinguished guests and participants, emphasizing the significance of the International Day of Peace in promoting peaceful coexistence. DCC Toriola stressed the role of the PCRU in resolving conflicts across the state, citing the Unit’s commitment to alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods that have helped mitigate tensions and foster harmony among diverse groups. He also shared the success of PCRU’s efforts, highlighting the 1,562 cases the unit had successfully resolved since January 2025.
A key highlight of the event was the lecture session delivered by Hon. Dahunsi Taiwo Adegbenro, Chairman of the Ibadan Peace and Global Conflict Resolution Initiative. His lecture, titled _“Act Now for a Peaceful Nigeria: A Panacea for Sustainable Peace and Development,_” was a call to action for individuals, communities, and institutions to engage in peacebuilding efforts. Hon. Adegbenro emphasized that sustainable peace is essential for national development and that the failure to address the root causes of conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of access to justice, threatens the nation’s progress. He urged the public to take responsibility for creating a peaceful society by promoting tolerance, understanding, and cooperation.
During the event, several dignitaries delivered goodwill messages:
– Hon. Alawode Emmanuel Oluwole, Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government, commended the NSCDC, particularly the Ibadan South-East Division, for its significant contributions to maintaining peace in the community. He applauded the efforts of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit in resolving conflicts and fostering harmony.
– His Royal Highness Ajofe (Dr.) Friday Okoliko, President of NITCIOS, expressed his delight in learning that NSCDC PCRU had successfully resolved 1,562 cases since January 2025. He noted that the event demonstrated that NSCDC is more closely connected to the people than even the police. He called on all traditional leaders across Oyo State to adopt amicable methods of conflict resolution, reinforcing the need for collaboration between institutions and communities.
– HRH Samuel Anigboro, the Okobaro of R’Urhobo, was surprised by the number of cases PCRU has addressed and acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by land disputes. He encouraged PCRU to continue its vital work in resolving such issues for the well-being of the community.
– Alhaji Haruna Katsina Maiyasin, the Sarkin Sasa, highlighted the important role of NSCDC as the most accessible security agency to the people. He praised their work in anti-vandalism and Agro Rangers, particularly in bringing peace between farmers and herders in the Oke-Ogun axis, further solidifying NSCDC as a critical partner in community peace efforts.
The event featured a testimonial session, where members of the public who had received support from PCRU shared their stories.
– Mrs. Layoke Akeem recounted how she was able to reclaim her 8 acres of land that had been taken over by a church, with the help of PCRU. After initially approaching another security agency without success, she sought the assistance of NSCDC. The PCRU intervention not only helped her secure one and a half acres but also facilitated the rebuilding of the demolished property.
– Alhaji Mubarak shared his experience of how PCRU successfully helped recover funds he had lent on behalf of acquaintances, after other security agencies were unable to assist. His testimony highlighted the practical, life-changing impact of the PCRU’s conflict resolution services.
The event culminated in the presentation of Peace Awards to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to promoting peace in Oyo State. Awardees included:
– Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, Federal Republic of Nigeria (received by Comrade Femi Awogboro).
– Hon. Alawode Emmanuel Oluwole, Chairman, Ibadan South-East Local Government.
– Senator Sarafadeen Abiodun Ali,
– Hon. Alawode Emmanuel Oluwole,
– Chief (Mrs) Francisca Padonu, the Chairperson Civil Defence Officers’ Wives Association
– Hon. Babatunde Sunday Ogunlade,
– Hon. Yunus Oladiji Olarenwajo Olaosegba,
– Prince John Folorunsho Adeleke, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle and
– Hon. Dahunsi Taiwo Adegbenro, the guest lecturer
In his closing remarks, Comrade Femi Awogboro, on behalf of the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, expressed his gratitude for the recognition and affirmed the Minister’s commitment to not only powering the nation but also supporting initiatives that promote peace and unity.
The International Day of Peace 2025 celebration at the NSCDC, Oyo State Command, was a success, with participants leaving inspired to act immediately for a more peaceful world. The event reinforced the message that peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, equity, and collaboration. NSCDC, Oyo State Command, reaffirms its commitment to peacebuilding and conflict resolution in Oyo State and beyond.
Signed:
SC Samuel Opebiyi
Public Relations Officer
NSCDC, Oyo State Command
