Nigerian Peace Corps asks senate to pass bill on creation of corps

The Nigerian Peace Corps has called on the senate to pass the bill seeking to establish the corps.

In February,the house of representatives passed a bill to establish the Nigeria Peace Corps.

The bill was sponsored by Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker; Julius Ihonvbere, majority leader, and others.

The green chamber carried out the clause-by-clause consideration of the bill after Ihonvbere presented a report.

The bill dates back to the 8th national assembly and was trailed by controversies at the time.

In 2018, when former President Muhammadu Buhari rejected the bill, he cited security concerns and the financial burden of funding the organisation.

However, in a statement commemorating World Peace Day 2024, Samson Oteh, the acting public relations officer (PRO) of the corps, highlighted the necessity of a legal framework to support the organisation’s mission.

He noted that the bill would empower the Nigerian Peace Corps to train and deploy officers who can collaborate with existing security agencies to promote stability in the country.

Oteh said this year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s declaration and programme of action on a culture of peace.

He noted that the declaration holds particular importance for Nigeria because of its “unique peace challenges”.

“This year’s theme, ‘Cultivating a Culture of Peace,’ resonates deeply with our organisation’s mission to foster a culture of peace and development in Nigeria. Nigeria, a diverse and vibrant country, has seen its fair share of peace-related challenges,” the statement reads.

“From communal conflicts to religious tensions and insurgency, we have experienced the devastating consequences of violence and instability. However, we must acknowledge the collective efforts made by individuals and organisations in fostering peace within our borders.

“The Nigerian Peace Corps itself has played a crucial role in promoting peace and harmony across the nation. Through its various initiatives, the organisation has worked closely with communities, implementing grassroots projects and conducting peace-building workshops to reduce conflict and violence.

“By focusing on youth development, leadership training, and promoting dialogue, the Nigerian Peace Corps has been instrumental in fostering a culture of peace among our future leaders.

“However, despite our efforts, the absence of a legal framework hinders our full potential. The Nigerian Peace Corps Bill, currently before the National Assembly, remains pending. To further strengthen our commitment to peace, we must recognise the need for a legislative framework that supports and empowers organisations like the Nigerian Peace Corps.

“We urge the Nigerian Senate to prioritise the passage of this bill, which will enable us to operate with greater autonomy and effectiveness, paving the way for more robust peace-building initiatives in our beloved nation.

“The Nigerian Peace Corps bill seeks to formalise and provide legal backing for the organisation, enabling it to carry out its activities more effectively.

“Passage of the bill would grant the Nigerian Peace Corps the authority to train and deploy peace officers, who can work alongside existing security agencies to promote peace and stability in communities across Nigeria.

“This synergy between these entities can create a more comprehensive and holistic approach to peace.

“Additionally, the bill would provide a framework for collaboration with international organisations, enabling the Nigerian Peace Corps to tap into global resources and expertise in peacebuilding.

“This not only enhances our capabilities in addressing peace issues but also highlights Nigeria’s dedication to the global peace movement.

“As we celebrate World Peace Day, let us remember that in unity lies strength. The passage of the Nigerian Peace Corps bill will serve as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to peace.

“It will demonstrate our determination to provide a safer, more prosperous future for all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic, religious, or social background.

“Therefore, we humbly beseech the Nigerian senate to prioritise the passage of the Nigerian Peace Corps bill, with hopes for subsequent presidential assent.”

Oteh reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to unity, compassion, and dialogue in the quest for a more peaceful Nigeria.

“This timely action will empower the Nigerian Peace Corps toward its noble mission of peacebuilding and contribute significantly to the overall stability and prosperity of our great nation,” he added.