As we mark the International Day of Peace, it is vital to reflect on how we, as individuals and nations, can cultivate a genuine culture of peace. Miss Face of Humanity Nigeria (MFOH Nigeria), a platform dedicated to human rights and humanitarian causes, remains steadfast in advocating for peace not as a destination but as an ongoing journey. During her inspiring speech at the Miss Face of Humanity International Showcase in Mexico, Amb. Rita Chika Ezenwa stated, “Peace is not a destination, it is a journey, and diplomacy is our compass.” This message resonates deeply in today’s global climate.
MFOH Nigeria champions diplomacy as the language of collaboration—transcending borders, ideologies, and cultures. In a world divided by conflict and political tensions, it is clear that lasting peace can be achieved only through compassion, empathy, and mutual understanding. Amb. Rita’s call to embrace humanity aligns with the theme for the 2024 International Day of Peace: “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, which recognizes that peace is not simply the absence of war but the presence of justice, freedom, and respect for human dignity.
MFOH Nigeria has long championed these ideals, empowering young women to become ambassadors of peace and change within their communities. Through initiatives promoting dialogue and education, the organization seeks to reshape how we address conflict and create sustainable solutions. In Nigeria, where insecurity, ethnic divisions, and political strife threaten national unity, the message of peace has never been more urgent.
Amb. Rita’s speech highlights that peace is not just the responsibility of governments or international organizations—it starts with each of us. The journey toward peace requires diplomacy over conflict, understanding over prejudice, and collaboration over division. Peace is an active, dynamic process that demands our participation.
The United Nations’ 1999 Declaration emphasized the need for non-violence, justice, democracy, tolerance, and cultural diversity in creating a peaceful world. These values are essential components of a society where human rights are respected, and conflicts are resolved through dialogue. MFOH Nigeria continues to push these principles forward, particularly by engaging with youth, who are the future peacebuilders.
Yet, peace cannot be just an ideal or a one-day celebration; it must be woven into the fabric of our society. In Nigeria, the ongoing violence, kidnappings, and political instability demand introspection. How can we create a culture of peace in our communities? How can we become diplomats of compassion in a world that often pulls us toward division?
For MFOH Nigeria, the answer lies in empowering individuals, especially the youth, to embrace their role as peacebuilders. The organization sees itself as a beauty pageant and a platform for social change. Through its annual National Showcase, MFOH Nigeria highlights young women’s critical role in reshaping narratives around conflict and peace, pushing the conversation toward actionable solutions.
The upcoming 2024 National Showcase, themed “Shining Stars of Compassion,” will focus on the power of empathy in resolving conflicts. Humanitarian causes, including peacebuilding, will be at the forefront of this prestigious event, bringing together influencers, policymakers, and everyday Nigerians committed to making a difference.
As the world comes together to celebrate peace, let us heed Amb. Rita’s words: “The power of humanity lies within us all; we must embrace it.” Now more than ever, we need to unite in our shared humanity and work toward a world where diplomacy and peace are not just goals but the reality we live by. The journey of peace is one we must walk together, with diplomacy as our guide and love as our foundation.
READ ALSO: MFOH Nigeria Joins WHD 2024; Calls for Global Action
Let this year’s International Day of Peace serve as a reminder that the path to peace requires deliberate steps and a collective commitment to building a compassionate world.
- By Ken Gbados, Publicist and Writer; he is the Public Relations Officer for Miss Face of Humanity Nigeria.
