Group lays foundation for N1.2b centre

He said the project would also strengthen leadership capacity at grassroots, national, and international levels, and provide a platform for training, conferences, and international collaborations on sustainable development.

Ozoemena appealed to governments at all levels, corporate organisations, development partners, and lovers of peace to partner with the organisation in executing the project, which is expected to be completed within two years.

He said, “Today marks not just the laying of blocks and mortar, but the laying of a legacy—a legacy of peace, visionary leadership, and sustainable development that will transcend generations.

“The Peace and Leadership Centre was conceived out of a compelling need—a need to institutionalize peacebuilding, leadership development, and social transformation in a rapidly evolving world.

"In a time when conflicts, social fragmentation, and leadership challenges persist across communities and nations, this Centre stands as a beacon of hope and a hub for solutions.

“Our vision is to build a world-class facility that will serve as: training ground for transformative leaders, a research and policy hub for peace and development, a dialogue platform for conflict resolution, and a centre for community empowerment and social cohesion."

Appreciating Governor Chukwuma Soludo for ensuring enabling environment for development initiatives, the cleric assured stakeholders and partners that his organization remained fully committed to transparency, accountability and sustainability.

In their separate remarks, former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Mike Okiro, Amb Francis Ikechukwu and the project engineer, Engineer Victory Nnamekwe, who was inducted into the organisation during the event, commended Ozoemena for the initiative.

He called on government and well-meaning individuals to support the project, expressing optimism that it would contribute significantly to peace-building in society.