Obasanjo Launches Story Book on Peace for Children

 

Sheriff Balogun in Abeokuta Former President Olusegun Obasanjo monday launched a

children story book on peace for the 2015 International Peace Day.

The story book which was written by the ex-president, is titled: ‘Peace Story for Children’ and was presented to the public at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

While launching the 14-paged booklet, Obasanjo illustrated various cartoons displayed in the book.

The book launch was attended by pupils from different secondary schools in the state. The former president said it had become imperative to sow the seeds of peace in the minds of children whose minds were more receptive to ideas.

He added that doing this would ensure the entrenchment of sustainable peace in the country.

Obasanjo who is currently outside the country on peace missions to some other parts of the world was represented by the Director of OOPL Centre for Human Security, Prof. Peter Okebukola, noted that since the youths are the future leaders, imbibing the essence of peace at young age should be vigorously pursued.

The event also witnessed debate with the theme: ‘Whose Responsibility is it to ensure peace? Is it the people or the government?’

Okebukola disclosed that Obasanjo called him overnight to tell Nigerian children to imbibe the culture of peace while still young.

“Baba believes that the youths are going to be the leaders of tomorrow and so we should start planting the seed of peace in their hearts.

“We are conveying the peace story in a story book. Children love stories. This book is to tell the children how they can be part of peace-making process in their homes; peace makers with their friends, peace makers in their schools and the nation.

“ Obasanjo is abroad now preaching peace. I’ll say that Baba deserves the Nobel Peace Prize because over the last several decades he has been in the vanguard or has been part of groups that have been solving challenges; he has been part of efforts building bridges, building national unity and promoting peace,” he said.

Speaking further on the International Day of Peace, Okebukola commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts at fostering peace in the country.

He enjoined all Nigerians to support the positive changes being brought about in the country by the Buhari administration.

Okebukola also disclosed that the Peace Project for Children (CHS) would enhance children’s understanding of conflict, conflict resolution and also empower students as citizens to contribute and sustain a more peaceful global community.

According to him, “The CHS peace education project requires not just imparting knowledge but also helping in the development of skills and attitudes that leads to creating a culture of non-violence and peaceful co-existence.

“Today, we are bringing together Nigerian youths to deepen their understanding of the benefits of peace and how they can individually and collectively promote and pursue the ideals of peace.

“As the world celebrates the International Peace Day, the Centre for Human Security commends the efforts of the government and various organisations in responding to the various security challenges and threats in the country, and implores everyone to devise measures to prevent conflicts. The centre remains committed to make sure peace is maintained.”

(culled from premium)