The Special Adviser on Youth and Students Affairs, Amb. Oladele John Nihi, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to any initiative that advances peace across Nigeria, with a special focus on Kogi State.
Speaking during his investiture as a Peace Ambassador for the forthcoming Nigeria Peace Movement (set to launch in Kogi), Amb. Nihi described peace as a “non‑negotiable ingredient for development.”
Receiving the Nigeria Peace Movement delegation in his office, the Special Adviser lauded the group’s plan to institutionalize an annual Peace Program.
He emphasized that Kogi State, often described as a “Mini Nigeria,” thrists on harmony despite its religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity, and that sustainable development can only be achieved through lasting peace.
“I am proud to hold a Master’s Degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution, and as a certified Peace Ambassador by the State Government—having helped resolve the House of Assembly crises of 2016‑2017. I stand in a strong position to champion this cause,” Amb. Nihi declared.
He added that the project’s vision will empower youths to view peace as an identity, and expressed optimism that 239 Peace Ambassadors (one per ward) will be appointed across the state’s 21 Local Government Areas and three Senatorial Districts.
Amb. Nihi also praised the Movement’s upcoming One‑Million‑Man March for Peace, slated for early next year, noting that the march will sensitize citizens, enhance security, and foster holistic development.
He warned that peaceful coexistence reduces the risk of criminal activities such as kidnapping and abduction.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mohammed Abaukaka, convener of the Nigeria Peace Movement and an indigene of Adavi LGA, hailed Amb. Nihi as an “amazing personality in the quest for peace.”
Abaukaka highlighted the Special Adviser’s reputation as a national youth mobilizer and stressed that his support will be pivotal to the success of the peace march and the broader peace agenda.
“Charity begins at home,” Abaukaka said, explaining that the Movement will first take root in Kogi before expanding to other parts of Nigeria and the world.
