- Prominent Epe indigenes honored as Eminent Peace Ambassadors at the IAWPA Lagos Peace Festival.
- Event celebrates United Nations International Day of Human Fraternity, promoting peace and sustainable development.
- World Peace President Denmark, Amb. Per Stafsen, emphasizes peace as a lifestyle and call to service.
The serene town of Epe witnessed a momentous event on Thursday, February 27, 2025, as distinguished sons and daughters of the community were honored as Eminent Peace Ambassadors during the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) Lagos Peace Festival.
Ekohotblog gathers that this landmark event was organized to commemorate the United Nations International Day of Human Fraternity, celebrating individuals who have contributed significantly to peace and social harmony.
EDITOR’S PICK
- 2025: A Glimmer of Hope Nigeria?
- Trapped in Fear Nigerians Cry Out Over Deportation Policy
- Opeifa: The Railway Manectricity in Epe.
The IAWPA, a globally recognized organization with United Nations ECOSOC Special Consultative Status since 2019, presented the awards to community leaders and other Nigerians who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to peacebuilding and community development.
Among the notable recipients from Epe were:
HRM Oba Musiliu Abiola Oliwo, Aladepekun of Odo-Egiri Kingdom
Amb. Prof. Oladipupo Basirat, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH)
Amb. Olayiwola Giwa, Council Manager, Lekki LCDA
CSP. Amb. Benjamin Isola Ayeni, Divisional Police Officer, Epe Divisional Police Headquarters
Amb. Chief (Mrs.) Adeola Giwa, Iyaloja, Oluwo Market
Amb. Osunsan Rasak Olatunbosun, Council Treasurer, Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government
Other honorees included Amb. Rotn. Funkeakpo Ken Batife, Amb. (Mrs.) Ajayi Adetutu Temitope, Amb. Ambrose Osobase West Aikhuele, Amb. (Mrs.) Vera Zuhar David, and Amb. Matthew Eghagha, among others.
Delivering the keynote address at the Royal Waterfront Hotel and Suites, Epe, the World Peace President Denmark, His Excellency Amb. Per Stafsen, emphasized the significance of peace as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
He noted that the Lagos Peace Festival marked the first time the event was being held in Nigeria, with Epe chosen as the host community.
“As we gather here to celebrate peace, it reflects our commitment to making peace a lifestyle. It is a character we must embrace in our private and public lives,” Stafsen stated.
“I encourage each one of us to continue promoting peace wherever we find ourselves, particularly here in Nigeria.”
He highlighted the association’s ongoing dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing that the awards were not merely recognitions but calls to service.
“These awards are given to individuals who have significantly promoted peace in their communities,” he explained.
“They should see this recognition not as a status symbol but as a responsibility to serve humanity. Above all, it is to support Nigeria in achieving the United Nations SDGs before 2030.”
HRM Oba Amb. Dr. Joseph Adeogun Ogunjobi Ogunbano, the Nigerian President of IAWPA and Olu of Ignore Egba, Ogun State, congratulated the new peace ambassadors, urging them to see the honor as a call to action.
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, equality, and mutual respect,” Oba Ogunjobi remarked. “I urge all honorees to continue their commendable efforts in promoting peace and social harmony in their communities.”
Speaking on behalf of the honorees, HRM Oba Musiliu Abiola Oliwo expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated Epe’s reputation as a peaceful community.
“Epe is known for its rich cultural heritage and peaceful coexistence,” he noted. “We are committed to sustaining this legacy by promoting peace in all aspects of our lives.”
Amb. Prof. Oladipupo Basirat echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the importance of education in peacebuilding.
“Education plays a vital role in shaping minds and fostering peaceful societies. We will continue to champion educational initiatives that promote understanding and tolerance,” she stated.
CSP. Amb. Benjamin Isola Ayeni lauded the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for introducing regular training programs for police officers, which he credited with enhancing his capacity for crisis management and dispute resolution.
“We have zero tolerance for crime in Epe,” he declared. “Criminals, especially cultists, should leave Epe immediately. The Nigeria Police is fully committed to maintaining law and order to ensure peace in our communities
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including:
Amb. Prof. Chidi Ehiriodo, International Director of IAWPA Worldwide
HRM Oba Amb. Kolawole Aremu Sowemimo, Olu Owode of Egba, Ogun State
Amb. Engr. Rotn. Chief Jimoh Alaba Quadry, Managing Director, IAWPA South-West
Amb. High-Chief Dr. Kayode Adewoe Orianye, South-West IAWPA Coordinator
Amb. Dr. Emmanuel Nkweke, World Peace Spokesman.
Representatives of security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders were also present.
Students from Ogunmodede College, Odo Obara High School, and Imole Comprehensive College, Epe delivered impressive cultural and musical performances, celebrating the spirit of peace and unity.
The 2025 IAWPA Lagos Peace Festival served as a platform to recognize and celebrate individuals dedicated to peacebuilding.
The honorees were reminded of their responsibilities as peace ambassadors to support government efforts in maintaining social harmony and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
FURTHER READING
- Albinism Community Urges Action as Skin Cancer Cases Surge
- FG Extends palliative programme to Support Students, DCT Residents
- Adiyan Water Works Project 80% Completion Excites Sanwo-Olu
“This award is a call to continue our journey towards peace, justice, and sustainable development,” Amb. Per Stafsen concluded.
“Together, we can build a world where peace is not just a concept but a lived reality.”
