By Bashir Bello, Abuja
The United Nations World international Interfaith Harmony Ambassador and peace advocate, Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru, has honoured community peace actors across Kaduna State for their years of commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and unity.
The recognition was part of activities marking the 2026 International Day of Peace, which is being observed under the theme, “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.” The United Nations says the theme highlights the importance of local action and recognises people working to build peace in their communities.
Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru, who led a delegation of Christian pastors and Muslim Imams to various communities, honoured individuals and groups in recognition of their contributions to peacebuilding, religious tolerance and better understanding among people of different faiths and communities.
According to Pastor Buru, the award recipients include traditional and community leaders, religious leaders, youth leaders and women’s organisations that have continued to play important roles in strengthening peaceful relationships across Kaduna State.
He said the 2026 theme, “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” is a reminder that peacebuilding should not be left only to governments or international organisations, but should involve individuals, communities, religious institutions and civil society.
He said the International Day of Peace provides an opportunity to appreciate individuals and organisations that have dedicated years to promoting peace, unity and religious tolerance.
“We have to honour those community peace actors who have spent many years promoting peacebuilding, unity and religious tolerance in their communities,” he said.
Pastor Buru explained that about 10 years ago, his organisation focused on honouring communities and individuals promoting Christian-Muslim relations in Kaduna State.
He said the focus has now expanded to recognise community leaders and other peace actors who have demonstrated long-term commitment to building a culture of peace, unity and religious tolerance.
Among those honoured was His Royal Highness Alhaji Ambassador Mohammed Arigbabuwo, leader of the Yoruba community in Northern Nigeria.
The peace ambassador called on Nigerians to continue promoting national unity, peaceful coexistence and patriotism, stressing the importance of collective efforts in building a peaceful society.
He particularly appealed to Nigerian youths to reject violence, political thuggery and other forms of conflict, urging them to embrace peace and contribute positively to the development of their communities.
Responding on behalf of the award recipients, the founder of the Middle Belt Youth Organisation, Amb. Victor Dio Awawd Enjema, expressed appreciation to Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru for recognising their contributions to peacebuilding.
Amb. Victor was honoured for his years of peacebuilding efforts and advocacy for peaceful coexistence across the 19 northern states of Nigeria.The recognition, according to the organisers, reflects the 2026 International Day of Peace message that lasting peace is built not only through international diplomacy but also through everyday actions within communities.
