By: Julian Adetinuyo
The International Chairman of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), Dr. Charles Yang, has urged Nigeria to play a pivotal role in advancing peace and fostering economic growth across Africa.
Speaking at a reception in Abuja for Ambassadors for Peace, Dr. Yang emphasized Nigeria’s strategic potential in promoting dialogue and solidarity to address global conflicts, including the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula.
Highlighting South Korea’s transformation from one of the world’s poorest nations into a high-tech economy, Dr. Yang attributed the progress to leadership and collective effort.
He contrasted this with North Korea’s stagnation and called for international collaboration to achieve peace without conflict. “We can’t just wait for peace; we must take it,” he stated, commending UPF co-founder Mother Moon’s unwavering dedication to peacebuilding and expressing hope for Nigeria’s strong alliance in global initiatives.
Sub-Regional Director for UPF West Africa, Reverend George Ogurie, emphasized the role of families in peacebuilding, stating, “True happiness begins at home and radiates outward to communities and nations.”
He encouraged newly inducted Ambassadors for Peace to promote harmony, resolve conflicts through dialogue, and serve as voices of calm in their communities.
Ambassador Isaac Chigozie Udeh, National Chairman of the National Rescue Movement, who spoke on behalf of other inductees, stressed the critical role of youth in shaping Nigeria’s future and urged traditional rulers as well as community leaders to embrace their roles as custodians of peace.
He also called on politicians to prioritize leadership over rulership, warning that they would be held accountable for actions undermining national unity. “Peace is essential for national blessings and sustainable development,” he added.