Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu has reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to strengthening peace building efforts through strategic partnerships, as it signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with five non-governmental organizations in Abuja.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Ochogwu described the event as a “fruitful and significant step” toward consolidating collective efforts in addressing Nigeria’s complex and evolving conflict landscape.
According to him, IPCR remains dedicated to delivering impactful services to the Nigerian government, citizens, and the broader African continent through evidence-based research, policy advocacy, and direct interventions.
He noted that the dynamic nature of human society continues to produce new and evolving challenges, requiring deeper analysis and innovative solutions.
“Conflicts and social problems are constantly evolving and, in some cases, mutating. This demands critical thinking and forward-looking strategies to provide sustainable solutions. The Institute is committed and dedicated to the work we do, delivering services through research, advocacy, direct interventions, and capacity development for diverse stakeholders”, he said.
The DG emphasized that IPCR works closely with government institutions, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, community-based groups, and individuals committed to peace building.
He further urged the various NGOs to ensure that the spirit and letter of the MoUs are put into action, stressing that the newly signed MoUs go beyond formalities, highlighting the importance of implementation and measurable impact.
“These MoUs are signed today with the belief that you are going to do the work and impact lives. We do not just believe in signing MoUs; we believe in activating the spirit behind them. Our focus is on practical collaboration, leveraging comparative strengths, and ensuring that these partnerships deliver real value to society”, Ochogwu stated.
Organizations that signed MoUs with IPCR included:
1. Carl-Maji Foundation is represented by the Director of Programs, Faith Ayegba. The Carl Maji Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2015, focused on empowering women and young people. The foundation promotes access to education, economic opportunities, and inclusive policies while advancing gender equality and youth development across Nigerian communities.
2. 3C’s Met International Institute led by Principal Partner, Chijoke Nnanna Ibeku. The institute is a specialized Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) organization. It provides professional training and certification in mediation, negotiation, counselling, and conciliation, equipping individuals and institutions with practical tools for resolving conflicts in workplaces, families, and communities.
3. Ihotu Children and Women Support Initiative (ICAWSI), represented by Executive Director Emmanuel Grace Eki. ICAWSI, founded in 2013, focuses on vulnerable women and children, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas. Its interventions include education support, mentorship, health services, and human rights advocacy aimed at promoting dignity and self-reliance.
4. Esteemed Hub Foundation under the leadership of Princess Doosugh Agbadu Adu. This youth-focused organization operates across multiple Nigerian states. It drives initiatives in youth empowerment, mental health advocacy, climate action, gender equality, and sustainable development, with a strong focus on building resilience among young people.
5. Peace Education and Practice Network (PEPNET) represented by Ambassador Moses Abolade. PEPNET is a peace building organization dedicated to promoting peace education. It works to integrate conflict resolution skills into schools and communities, training peace ambassadors and addressing the root causes of insecurity through education-driven initiatives.
The MoU signing marks a strategic move by IPCR to deepen collaboration with civil society and professional institutions, reinforcing a multi-stakeholder approach to peace building, conflict prevention, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
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