Our reporter
The Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Dr. Bong Duke, has called on residents of the state to embrace unity, inclusiveness, and dialogue as the world marks the 2025 International Day of Peace.
This is part of the International Day of Peace celebrated globally every September 21 to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and a culture of non-violence.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Calabar, Duke said peace remains the foundation of development, stressing that no society can make sustainable progress without justice, equity, and opportunities for all.
“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, equity, and opportunities for all,” he said. “Our history, diversity, and aspirations can only thrive when peace is nurtured in our homes, communities, and institutions.”
He noted that the commission views peace as central to every development framework in the state, adding that conflict sensitivity and social cohesion must be mainstreamed into budgets and planning processes.
According to him, “It is only in an atmosphere of peace that our children can learn without fear, our farmers can cultivate without threat, our businesses can flourish, and our people can live with dignity.”
Duke therefore urged traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youths, religious institutions, civil society groups, and government agencies to renew their commitment to reconciliation and tolerance in line with the vision of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
“As we join the world to observe this International Day of Peace, may we remember that peace begins with each of us. When we choose cooperation over confrontation, empathy over enmity, and service over selfishness, we build the Cross River of our dreams,” he said.
