UPF-CHANMUS Hosts Advocacy Program Promoting UN Human Solidarity Through Skills Training

Written by Dr. George Ikpot - Secretary General, UPF Nigeria

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Niger State, Nigeria ― Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Minna, capital city of Niger State, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), in collaboration with the Christian-Muslim Inter-Religious Peace Foundation (CHANMUS), celebrated over a Thousand Four Hundred (1,400) graduates who completed several months of Special  Skilled Acquisition Training for Youths, Orphans and Widows, organized and sponsored by the two organizations, particularly, the Niger State Ambassadors for Peace; and supported by the Niger State  Government and other institutions, to develop a culture of solidarity and a spirit of sharing to achieve social justice and combat poverty and crime. 

In preparation for the training program, the Niger State UPF Ambassadors for Peace Coordinator,  Amb. Dr. Hajiya Fatima Ibrahim Mama, who is also the National President of CHANMUS, had facilitated several meetings with the Ambassadors for Peace in the State and shared the UPF Founders’ ideals in building a culture of peace, including, particularly, the Ambassadors for Peace universal principles of  “Living For The Sake Of Others,” based on the application of the principles of Interdependence, Mutual  Prosperity and Universally Shared Values, with guidance from the UPF National Office through the Secretary-General.  

Report on UPF and CHANMUS Event 

UPF Nigeria, in partnership with The Christian and Muslim Inter-Religious Peace Foundation (CHANMUS), organized a special skilled acquisition training for the disadvantaged in the State to encourage and keep up with the United Nations Human  Solidarity commitment. The training program targeted youths, widows, and the handicapped. With over 1500 persons in attendance, the event took place on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Niger State, North Central Nigeria. It was deliberately designed to promote peace, solidarity, and economic empowerment among marginalized groups. 

Overview of CHANMUS 

The Christian-Muslim Inter-Religious Peace Foundation (CHANMUS) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization committed to supporting widows, orphans, underprivileged children, and the girl child. CHANMUS aims to create a peaceful and inclusive society by empowering youths and other vulnerable groups with access to essential resources and 

opportunities to improve their livelihoods. The foundation’s efforts focus on fostering patriotism, peace, and non-violence among Nigerian citizens. 

Key Activities and Highlights of the Event 

The event showcased two major activities: 

1. Graduation Ceremony: CHANMUS celebrated the successful graduation of 1,450 participants who completed various skill acquisition programs. These graduates were equipped with practical skills to improve their socioeconomic status and reduce dependence on external support. The foundation also launched a new initiative across all 25 local government areas of Niger State, expanding its outreach to empower more individuals. 

2. Induction of New Ambassadors for Peace: In recognition of individuals committed to fostering peace and unity, four (4)  distinguished Nigerians who contributed to supporting the skilled training program were inducted as Ambassadors for peace. This induction aligns with UPF and CHANMUS’s mission to promote interfaith harmony and collaborative efforts toward peacebuilding. 

Distinguished Guests and Stakeholders 

The event drew participation from institutions and stakeholders, including: 

• His Excellency, Farmer Umar Muhammad Bago, Executive Government of Niger State (Chairman of Occasion),  represented as the Governor was out of the country. 

• Hon. Mary Noel, Niger State House of Assembly 

• Hon. Zubairu Bala Kuta, Director General, Niger State NGOs Directorate  

• His Royal Highness Dr. Yahaya Abubakar, Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers • Representatives of the former Speaker, Niger State House of Assembly 

• Dr. George C. Ikpot, Secretary General, Universal Peace Federation (UPF) 

• Amb. Dr. Hajiya Fatima Mama Ibrahim, CEO and Founder of CHANMUS/National Treasurer IAPD, Nigeria. • Hon. Dr. Mohammed Saba Usman, Executive Director of Finance, Niger State Investment Promotion Agency • State Commissioner, Women Affairs 

• Traditional Rulers; and other dignitaries.  

Event Proceedings 

The program commenced with the recognition of all dignitaries and special guests, who were welcomed to the high table.  The event formally began with an opening prayer led by Mallam Usman, representing the Muslim community, and  Prophetess Florence, representing the Christian community. 

In her welcoming address, Amb. Dr. Hajiya Fatima Mama Ibrahim, founder and CEO of CHANMUS, expressed her gratitude to the participants, sponsors, and supporters who made the event possible. She emphasized the significance of the skill acquisition program in equipping beneficiaries with sustainable skills and fostering a peaceful coexistence across communities. 

Mrs. Bilkisu Ibrahim, the technical lead for CHANMUS, gave a detailed presentation on the foundation's mission,  achievements, and future projects. She stressed the importance of providing underprivileged individuals with sustainable income opportunities to enhance their economic independence. The initiative is not only intended to support livelihoods but also to promote peace by reducing social inequalities and addressing root causes of conflict. 

Following this, Dr. George Ikpot, Secretary General of UPF, introduced the audience to UPF’s mission and global activities.  He provided insights into the Peace Highway Project initiated by UPF founders Rev. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han  Moon. Dr. Ikpot explained that the Peace Highway is a visionary project aimed at connecting countries and breaking down barriers, both physically and ideologically, to foster unity across nations. 

Induction of Peace Ambassadors and Award Presentations 

A major highlight of the event was the induction of four senior customs officers as new Ambassadors for Peace. The newly  inducted Ambassadors were:

• Abdulkadir M. A. Babakatun 

• Oganuzor Chidera Sylvester 

• Emeruwa Nnamdi Kingsley 

• Rosemary Amina Usman 

These individuals were recognized for their commitment to promoting peace and interfaith collaboration. They also received additional awards from CHANMUS in acknowledgment of their contributions to societal harmony. 

Certificates were subsequently presented to representatives of the 1,450 graduates, symbolizing the successful completion of their training. This milestone underscores UPF/CHANMUS’s continuous efforts to provide life-changing opportunities for youths and widows. 

Conclusion and Closing Remarks 

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the Director of Mobilization at CHANMUS, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders and participants. A closing prayer was offered to mark the official end of the program. 

Following the main event, a dinner reception was hosted by two of the newly inducted Peace Ambassadors, Amb.  Abdulkadir M. A. Babakatun and Amb. Rosemary Amina Usman, in honor of the guests. This gesture reflected the spirit of solidarity and hospitality that the event sought to promote. 

Impact and Significance 

The collaboration between UPF and CHANMUS in organizing this event highlights the importance of solidarity, skill development, and peacebuilding in Nigeria. The skill acquisition program not only empowered participants economically but also contributed to fostering social cohesion. The induction of Ambassadors for Peace and the support from Ambassadors for Peace further emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to promote peace, unity, and non-violence in communities. This event served as a testament to the power of interfaith dialogue and skill empowerment in addressing societal challenges, reinforcing the vision of both UPF and CHANMUS to create a more inclusive and peaceful society.