- Ugboaja canvasses peace, receives Ádá Ndigbó jí èjè mbá ùwá níné’ title
As part of efforts to foster peace in Nigeria and across the globe, the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) an affiliate of the United Nations, has inducted some Igbo Royalties in Lagos as Eminent Peace Ambassadors.
Speaking at the ceremony on Saturday, the IAWPA Secretary, Dr. Chinaza Jenny Ugboaja, explained that the group aims to promote peace around the world, stressing that the influx of eminent Igbo personalities has been her dream.
Her words: “This award isn’t just for decoration. It is a call to work and to add value to the society. I’m very happy to have the Ezes in Lagos in the house. My plea is for Igbos to support this initiative of peace. In the past, a lot of people doubted the activities of IAWPA. It was difficult to convince them about this initiative in the part, but I’m glad that people are coming out to identify with the association”
“In 2012, IAWPA got its Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Certificate and it paved way for a lot of eminent personalities including Governors, Senators and several business tycoons to join the association.”
The association, which has a Danish President, Mr. Per Stefson, has been making notable Nigerians Eminent Peace Ambassadors to promote universal peace, justice and inclusive society.
Dr. Ugboaja, who was surprised with an unexpected chieftaincy title as Ádá Ndigbó jí èjè mbá ùwá níné’, thanked the Igbo dignitaries and enjoined the new peace ambassadors to make a difference with the new appointment.
IAWPA President, Stefson was also conferred a title as Eze udo gbúrúgbúrú, even as he expressed delight at the kind gesture.
In his remarks, Stefson said; “I feel elated and honoured. Although, it’s a bit strange as I was surprised. I have learnt that this connotes a big honour for the Igbos and I am grateful.”
“Our organization is one that thrives on networks and connections. I’m very excited because we have gotten new members and increased our network in Lagos. The goal is to prioritize peace.”
Also speaking, His Excellency, the Eze Ndigbo of Ejigbo, Eze (Amb.) Nicholas Njoku, described the ceremony as a special occasion for IAWPA and Igbos.
“I have been an ambassador for over 5 years and our core responsibility is to be advocates of peace wherever we find ourselves. We are also certified to give judgement and settle disputes where there are misunderstandings,” Eze Njoku said.
He, however, encouraged Igbos in the Eastern part of the country to maintain peace and not continue the ills of kidnapping, armed robbery an other criminal vices.
The IAWPA is also an association that ensures that the United Nations other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) like poverty, clean water, and education global development programmes are duly executed.
