For some time now, it appears that application of strategic dialogue in resolving conflict has remained elusive in many States.

It was perhaps in view of this that the State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency, embarked on a one day sensitization on the importance of using dialogue in conflict resolution at Awka South Local Government Headquarters, with the theme “Building a People of Peace.”

The programme was organized for stakeholders in the State including the Civil Society groups, Para-military Agencies, Women Groups and Town Union Leaders, amongst others.

Speaking on the importance of the programme, the State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Mr Charles Nwoji, identified economic crunch, marginalization, corruption, religious intolerance among others as some of the major factors responsible for violent clashes in Nigeria.

He maintained that to build a people of peace in the country, the citizenry must learn to live together despite differences in tribe, language, culture and creed.

The Chairman on the occasion and the National President, Anambra State Association of Town Unions, Chief Alex Onukwue, was of the opinion that peace is inseparable from man’s life as nothing meaningful can be achieved without peace.

Sharing their thoughts on the programme, the State Comptroller of Prisons, Mr Emmanuel Nwakeze, the State Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Mrs Obiageli Obiajulu, represented by the Assistant Commandant, Mr Kennedy Anyanwu, the Chairman of the State
Civil Society Network, Prince Chris Azoh, among others, suggested ways of ending the Herdsmen and Farmers clashes in Anambra State.

Some youth representatives at the programme also called for their involvement in activities concerning the re-establishment of a viable and peaceful social order.

The event featured an interactive session and drama presentation on the importance of peace.