Minister Identifies Unity, Understàndiñg As Roadmàp To Peace

Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) asserted that unity, not peace, brings about peaceful cohabitation among individuals of different historical, ethnic, and religious ties.

The minister, who made this statement at the formal launch of the peace and unity campaign in Abuja, also stated that for peace to reign in their own domains, individuals of various socioeconomic, cultural, and value systems must tolerate one another.

Aliyu also stated that Nigeria’s unity was non-negotiable, regardless of differing viewpoints, tribes, or religions, and urged every Nigerian to join the peace movement in their respective states.

She, however, commended the organizers, the Ambassadors of Voice for Change in Nigeria for their thoughtfulness which crystallizes the relevance of peace in a national entity of multi-vocal groups.

Aliyu noted that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) decided to partner with the group because responsible and responsive leaders must work assiduously towards unity and tolerance among ethnic groups in the country.

The minister, however, recommended absolute level of citizens’ orientation, education, tolerance, culturally relative norms and values be inculcated among the youths so as to make them the future leaders of this great entity called Nigeria.

Earlier in his remarks, the President of Ambassadors of Voice of Change in Nigeria, Mr. Bala Ahmed, said with the official launch in the nation’s capital, the campaign train would be moved to the 36 states of the federation to preach the gospel of peace.

While commending the Federal Capital Territory Administration for the partnership, he also called on governments at all levels, religious and traditional institutions to domesticate the peace initiative.

It would be recalled that the event was attended by renowned Nollywood actors and entertainment industry amongst whom are Timi Dakolo, 2face Idibia, John Ikechukwu Okafor popularly known as Mr. Ibu, Gentle Jack, Okey Bakassi, and Afro Beat star, Sir Shina Peter.

Others are Samson Siasia, Saeed Balogun, Francis Agoda popularly known as I Go Dye, Sunday Osakuri popularly known as original Stereo Man amongst others