On October 15, 2024, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nigeria, in collaboration with Global Peace Women (GPW) Nigeria, launched a peacebuilding initiative at ECWA Church in Fantsuwam Chiefdom, Nigeria. This event marked a significant step towards equipping women and youth with the skills and knowledge needed to foster lasting peace within their communities. Through hands-on workshops and interactive sessions, the over 100 participants gained critical insights into peacebuilding, financial literacy, and support towards the formation of cooperative societies, creating a strong foundation for continued community-driven change.
People across Fantsuwan Chiefdom register for GPF Nigeria workshop on peacebuilding.
The project embraced GPF’s “One Family under God” vision, which stresses shared values of compassion, respect, and responsibility to create a cohesive society where differences are celebrated and collaboration is encouraged. Rev. John Joseph Hayab, the country director for GPF Nigeria, opened the event with an overview of the project’s objectives. He commended the local leadership, including Elder Ishaya Dare Akawu, for facilitating this first-of-its-kind initiative in the region.
GPF Nigeria hosts a workshop on peacebuilding in Fantsuwan chiefdom.
Mrs. Hayab, GPW Nigeria’s Adviser, highlighted the critical role women play in nurturing peaceful environments within families and communities. She encouraged women to take responsibility for fostering unity and cooperation, emphasizing that peace begins at home. Her message resonated with participants, many of whom shared personal accounts of past conflicts in the area and expressed gratitude for the skills acquired through the training.
The workshop, led by GPF Nigeria’s Senior Program Manager Abdul Ahmed, included dynamic discussions, group activities, and presentations on the importance of peacebuilding, civic responsibility, and the root causes of community violence. Participants engaged in group discussions and exercises, deepening their understanding of peace and unity as integral components of a thriving society. Interactive sessions facilitated by Ahmed allowed participants to explore practical peacebuilding methods and understand the power of interfaith and intercultural cooperation.
Groups present after engaging discussion sessions.
Throughout the event, the importance of family and community cohesion was emphasized. Participants explored strategies for building peaceful households, learning that the family serves as a “school of love” where children develop values essential for social harmony. The training encouraged participants to see themselves as agents of change, with each person having the capacity to contribute positively to their communities.
Participants present community mapping exercise.
The event’s impact extended beyond the immediate training received, instilling in participants a long-term commitment to peacebuilding and community service. Many attendees expressed newfound confidence and determination to apply the knowledge and skills they acquired to benefit their neighborhoods. The formation of cooperative groups was highlighted as essential in ensuring that participants have both economic support and a structure for continued collaboration, strengthening the sustainability of these peacebuilding efforts. In addition, GPF Nigeria is committed to conducting follow-up training sessions, reinforcing the skills participants aquire, and fostering ongoing dialogue within the community.
Elder Ishaya Dare Akawu expressed his appreciation, remarking, “This is the first time a program of this kind has reached us at the grassroots level. Thank you to Rev. Hayab and the entire team for helping us start on this journey toward peace.” Another participant, Anthony Justice, echoed his gratitude, committing to share the insights gained with others in his community. Similarly, community member Nicolas Madaki praised the program for arriving at a time of great need, recognizing its potential to inspire a lasting positive impact.
As the program continues to be implemented over the next couple of months, it not only addresses the immediate needs of the Fantsuwam Chiefdom but also lays the groundwork for a resilient future, empowering local leaders to drive sustainable development and peaceful coexistence at the grassroots level. Through this initiative, GPF and GPW Nigeria continue to shine as beacons of hope, working tirelessly toward a unified Nigeria.
