Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to preserve peace and prevent any return to the devastating experience of war, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening national unity, religious tolerance and security through inclusive governance and international cooperation.
Akume made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Community of Saint Egidio, led by its Country Representative in Nigeria, Prof. Jan De Volder. The delegation, which also included Italy’s Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Iscopo Foti, paid him a courtesy visit and formally invited him to attend an international peace conference scheduled for October in Italy.
The conference is expected to bring together political and religious leaders from around the world to discuss practical ways of promoting peaceful coexistence, interfaith dialogue and conflict resolution.
Addressing the delegation, the SGF said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on tackling insecurity while promoting national cohesion through military efforts, economic reforms and inclusive governance.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, Akume said the country had drawn lasting lessons from the Civil War and was united in its resolve to avoid another conflict.
“Since the civil war, Nigerians have made up their minds never to experience war again. While we may have frictions arising from our differences, we are collectively working towards peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and national unity,” he said.
Akume acknowledged that security threats still exist in some parts of the country but maintained that ongoing military operations have significantly weakened terrorist and insurgent groups.
He also said President Tinubu is working closely with security agencies and other stakeholders to restore peace while implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda to drive economic growth and ensure that all Nigerians benefit from development.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working round the clock with all stakeholders to end the barbaric killings and attacks on our citizens. Through the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government is also driving economic recovery and ensuring that every segment of the population is carried along in the nation’s development process,” Akume stated.
The SGF further praised the Community of Saint Egidio for its global efforts in promoting peace, humanitarian services and interfaith dialogue, expressing Nigeria’s readiness to deepen collaboration with international partners in pursuit of lasting peace and sustainable development.
Earlier, Prof. Jan De Volder explained that the Community of Saint Egidio, which has operated worldwide for 53 years and has been active in Nigeria for 26 years, was founded on the principles of prayer, service to the poor and peacebuilding.
He described the organisation as a bridge-builder committed to fostering dialogue among communities and supporting vulnerable people.
De Volder also challenged what he described as the negative portrayal of Nigeria in some international media and on social media, saying his personal experience revealed a nation known for resilience, hospitality and a strong commitment to peaceful coexistence despite its diversity.
He added that Nigeria’s experience in managing ethnic and religious diversity would provide valuable insights at the October peace conference in Italy, where world leaders will discuss ways to promote dialogue and mutual understanding in an increasingly divided world.
Akume accepted the invitation and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships aimed at promoting global peace, stability and sustainable development.
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