By Abiodun JIMOH
The Rotary Action Group for Peace (RAGFP) has
entered into a strategic partnership with the
Presidency through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to launch the National Community Violence Reduction Programme
(NCVRP) —a nationwide initiative designed to reduce violence and strengthen
peacebuilding across communities in Nigeria.
The partnership was announced during the maiden press briefing of the RAGFP Lagos State Branch, held at Majiyagbe Hall, Rotary Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, District Governor of Rotary District 9112, Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin, described peace as the foundation of every society’s growth and stability.
“Peace begins with a smile.
Rotary places great importance on peacebuilding. We have peace centers around the world — in Kampala, Uganda, and now in India. Wherever we are, we must give peace a chance because peace is the foundation of everything,” Adedoyin stated.
He explained that Rotary has supported peacebuilding efforts since 2002 by
sponsoring the training of police officers, customs officials, and public servants in global peace centers to help them manage conflict more effectively.
Also speaking, Past President Adebukunola Soile-Balogun, who serves as the Lagos State Coordinator of RAGFP, said that peacebuilding and conflict prevention are key areas of Rotary’s focus worldwide.
She described RAGFP as the civil society arm of Rotary that coordinates humanitarian activities to promote what she called “positive peace” — working with institutions and communities to prevent conflict and build understanding.
“The Lagos branch of RAGFP was set up over three years ago. Since then, we have carried out several peace interventions, including a Peace Walk in Isheri North, the signing of a peace accord between community leaders, and the establishment of the Isheri Community Peace and Security Council,” she said.
She added that the group has also organized youth training with agencies like NDLEA, EFCC, and ICPC, and is planning vocational training for inmates at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.
Soile-Balogun reaffirmed RAGFP’s readiness to work closely with the Lagos State Government and the Presidency to promote lasting peace.
“Rotary is known globally for service above self. In Nigeria, we’re complementing government efforts to build peace in all communities. Our partnership with ONSA will help push the non-kinetic approach to peace — engaging the people rather than using force,” she concluded.
