Strengthening Global Peacebuilding: UPF International Chairman Dr. Charles S. Yang Visits Nigeria

Written by UPF-Africa
Wednesday, January 1st, 2025

Nigeria — From November 13 to 17, 2024, Dr. Charles S. Yang, the International Chairman of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), visited Nigeria in a landmark effort to bolster peacebuilding initiatives. His visit was instrumental in strengthening ties between UPF Nigeria and UPF International, with a focus on critical issues such as the reunification of North and South Korea and the preparation of leaders for the upcoming World Summit in April 2025.

Dr. Yang’s arrival in Abuja was met with an enthusiastic reception at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, where he was warmly welcomed by UPF Nigeria leadership, including Dr. Kathy Rigney, the Co-chair of UPF Africa, Rev. George Ogurie, Sub-region West UPF Director, Rev. Imo Nkanta, FFWPU Nigeria’s National Leader, Dr. George Charles Ikpot UPF Nigeria Secretary General, and several Ambassadors for Peace. This moment marked the beginning of a visit that would reaffirm Nigeria’s pivotal role in global peace efforts.

As part of his itinerary, Dr. Yang paid tribute to prominent figures who have significantly contributed to UPF’s mission in Nigeria. One of his first visits was to Dame Pauline Tallen, former Minister of Women’s Affairs and Chairperson of UPF Nigeria’s Board of Trustees, to extend condolences following the recent loss of her son. This gesture reflected the compassion and solidarity that underpin UPF’s values. Dr. Yang also visited the family of the late Senator Ibrahim N. Mantu, a former UPF Nigeria Chairman, acknowledging his enduring legacy in advancing peace and development in the country.

During his stay, Dr. Yang engaged with key Nigerian leaders to discuss collaborative efforts in fostering peace. He met with Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, as well as former President Goodluck E. Jonathan, who serves as the Chairman of the International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP) Africa. Dr. Yang also held discussions with H.E. Bamanga Tukur, a UPF Ambassador for Peace and member of the UPF Nigeria Board of Trustees. These high-level engagements emphasized Nigeria’s strategic importance in addressing global peace challenges and fostering a unified vision for the future.

The visit culminated in a formal dinner reception organized by the Ambassadors for Peace. Held in an atmosphere of interfaith harmony, the evening was an opportunity to reflect on UPF’s mission and its achievements. In his keynote address, Dr. Yang underscored the significance of global peacebuilding and Nigeria’s leadership role in these efforts. The evening also saw the induction of four new Ambassadors for Peace, recognizing their dedication to fostering unity and collaboration across communities.

As a gesture of appreciation, Dr. Yang received several symbolic gifts, including a token for True Mother from the Christian-Muslim Inter-religious Peace Foundation, a published book by Ambassador Victor Bello, and a bronze artifact accompanied by a historical book from Ambassador Hon. Agharese Idubor.

Dr. Yang’s visit left a profound impression on UPF Nigeria, strengthening its resolve to further its peacebuilding mission. His engagements underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing global challenges, ensuring that Nigeria remains a pivotal player in the quest for world peace.

As preparations for the April 2025 World Summit intensify, Dr. Yang’s visit serves as a reminder of the transformative power of cooperation and shared vision in achieving lasting peace.