Peace Corps Crucial In Times Of Insecurity – Ambode

By GEORGE OKOJIE

— Aug 29, 2016 4:06 am | Leave a comment

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode has said the establishment of Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) as a legally-backed organisation by the federal government will help to tackle the problem of insurgency, kidnapping and other sundry crimes rocking the country.

Ambode who dropped the hint at the 2016 passing out parade of over 2,800 Peace Corps cadets at the weekend  in Lagos State, said when legally established, besides ensuring peace in the country, it would provide alternative employment for the youths, community development services and nation building.

The governor who pointed out that only effective community policing could address the recent rise in communal clashes being experienced in the country, added that  the security of lives and property remained the primary objective of any sensitive administration and should be taken seriously at all times.

Represented by his senior special assistant on Community Affairs, Mr Tajudeen Quadri,  Ambode who was also conferred with the title of the Commander of Peace, challenged the organisation to continue to champion the peace crusade.

He expressed optimism that the Peace Corps would surmount its present challenge as soon as the National Assembly gave a statutory backing to it.

Ambode said, “It is marvellous seeing what has happened today and looking at what had been touted that the Peace Corps is a dubious organisation; one can now see that in a genuine society, such organisation is required to tackle crime. I am aware that it (PCN) is recognised by the United Nations Charter before coming for recognition at the National Assembly.

“The Peace Corps of Nigeria Bill is now at the third reading in the Senate and I believe by the time it is passed into law, it will alleviate some of the challenges they are having now.”