AMBASSADORS FOR PEACE GATHER TO COMMEMORATE THE ELEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDER'S ASCENSION

Written by UPF-Africa

Friday, September 1st, 2023

Nigeria - Abuja, To honor the 11th anniversary of the UPF's founder, Father Moon, UPF Nigeria organized a commemorative event to highlight Father Moon's significant contributions to the world. As part of this initiative, an eight-day Peace and Character Education training program was conducted for twenty teachers from twenty schools, selected by the Federal Government, as a pilot program leading to the proposed national event. In total, 34 participants engaged in this program from Tuesday, August 22, 2023, to Thursday, August 31, 2023, including the twenty teachers, UPF staff, and resource persons from various institutions.

The Founder's Commemoration event took place at Bassan Plaza, drawing an attendance of sixty-four individuals. The event featured two primary segments: the Commemoration of the Founder's Day and the Presentation of Award Certificates. Rev. Imo Nkanta, the National Leader of FFWPU, acted as the MC and skillfully guided the proceedings by introducing and acknowledging the presence of esteemed participants. With humor and engaging anecdotes, Rev. Nkanta set a lively ambiance for the gathering, ensuring active engagement and high spirits throughout. The event commenced with a prayer led by Elder Ogwunna Uche George, followed by the National Anthem.

The floor was then yielded to Prof. Joseph Golwa, Chairman of the UPF FCT Advisory Committee, who delivered the opening remarks. Prof. Golwa's speech highlighted several key points: Global Impact of Father Moon; he emphasized the worldwide significance of Father Moon's work, which transcended national boundaries and played a prominent role in the 20th-century peace and empowerment agenda of the United Nations. Prof. Golwa noted the alignment between Father Moon's mission and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), emphasizing the relevance of Father Moon's efforts to international development and global peace. Divinely Guided Mission: Prof. Golwa underscored the belief that Father Moon's mission was divinely guided, and the lasting impact of his work testified to the spiritual foundation of his life's purpose. Sharing Visions with the World: A central theme of Prof. Golwa's address was the importance of sharing Father Moon's visions globally, ensuring that his ideals and principles reach a broad audience. Prof. Golwa concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to embrace and implement Father Moon's teachings and practices, honoring his legacy by continuing to positively impact the world.

Rev. George M. Ogurie, the UPF West African Sub-Regional Director, followed with a historical perspective on Father Moon's work and life, as well as the establishment of Universal Peace Federation (UPF). In his address, Rev. George Ogurie emphasized several key points about Father Moon and the Universal Peace Federation (UPF). He highlighted Father Moon's deeply spiritual approach to addressing critical issues, the significant role he played during the late 1980s and 1990s in contributing to the end of the Cold War, a historic meeting between Father Moon and Kim Il Sung in 1991 that marked a step toward peace on the Korean Peninsula, the launch of UPF in 2005 as a global movement for world peace and reconciliation, the importance of intensive prayer sessions in Alaska in shaping UPF's mission, Father Moon's unwavering character and divine calling to promote interfaith harmony and strengthen the family institution, and UPF's mission to foster collaboration and peace among diverse nations and faiths. Following his address, a brief video presentation on Father Moon's life history was shown.

Amb. Simeon Uwa, the Executive Secretary of the International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP)-Africa, delivered a lecture on "Democracy and a Culture of Peace: The Need for Political Education for a Culture of Peace, Security, and Development," incorporating the thoughts and vision of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Key takeaways from Ambassador Uwa's speech included his emphasis on personal commitment to peace, his commitment to democratic values and international cooperation as demonstrated by his participation in the 2023 World Summit in Cambodia, and his call to address election malpractice in Africa through transparent and fair elections. Ambassador Uwa also condemned institutional coups, stressed the importance of respecting cultural values, interdependence, and mutual prosperity, and urged defining democracy with African peculiarity, valuing cultural aspects and "brothers keepers" in the pursuit of democratic ideals. Furthermore, Ambassador Uwa discussed the Greek categorization of society into "idiots," "tribe people," and "citizens," offering insights into societal roles and responsibilities. In summary, Amb. Simeon Uwa's speech served as a powerful call to action, emphasizing individual responsibility for peace and the importance of interfaith dialogue, international cooperation, and universal values in the pursuit of peace and development, while highlighting the enduring relevance of Father Moon's vision in today's world.

Dr. George Ikpot, UPF Secretary General, delivered a significant speech centered on expressing appreciation to Ambassadors of Peace and highlighting the significance of the Global Peace Award certificate. He conveyed gratitude to Ambassadors for Peace who generously sponsored both the previous event in Lagos and the current one. Particular emphasis was placed on the substantial contributions of Amb. Nora Robert, a key sponsor of the Lagos event, and Amb. Lindsay Ralph, who played a crucial role in coordinating and executing the event. Their unwavering support and commitment were recognized as instrumental in the program's success. Dr. George Ikpot elucidated the meaning of the Global Peace Award Certificate, characterizing it as a symbol of recognition and appreciation for individuals dedicated to advancing global peace and harmony. The certificate, he emphasized, stands as a testament to the tireless efforts of those working toward a more peaceful world. Furthermore, Dr. Ikpot discussed the historical significance of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and its pivotal role in the peaceful reunification of East and West Germany. He highlighted how UPF has played a crucial role in fostering reconciliation and unity in various regions, notably contributing to the successful reunification of Germany.

The Ambassador for Peace Award Presentation was led by Dr. George Ikpot, with support from Rev. George Ogurie, Prof. Joseph Golwa, Gen. Paul Boro, and Amb. Uwa. During this segment, seven individuals were inducted as Ambassadors for Peace, and two Ambassadors for Peace were honored with the Global Peace Award Certificates.

General Paul Boro, Rtd, extended his gratitude to all attendees and speakers who had contributed their insights during the gathering. His appreciation was warmly received by the participants, underscoring the sense of unity and recognition within the event. Rev. Imo Nkanta and Dr. George Ikpot led a song contribution by leading everyone in singing "Eommaya," a beloved song cherished by Father Moon. The participants enthusiastically joined in singing under their guidance. Additionally, Prof. Joseph Golwa volunteered to share a musical moment by singing a song titled "Fruit Salad," which incorporated the familiar nursery rhyme "Frere Jacques" (Brother John). The entire gathering joined in the singing, creating a joyful and harmonious atmosphere.

In addition to all these, it is important to note that Ambassadors for Peace made financial contributions to ensure the success of the event. This further demonstrates the commitment of Ambassadors for Peace to the values and mission of UPF. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the donors for their generous contributions towards the event's success.

The gathering concluded with a prayer led by Amb. Alhaji Dantsoho, followed by the capture of closing pictures to commemorate the event.