The Oyo State Office of Interfaith Affairs has called on residents to sustain peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, understanding and unity, irrespective of religious, ethnic, political or other differences.
The office made the call ahead of the commemoration of the 2026 International Day of Peace, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, September 23, in Ibadan.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that the International Day of Peace is observed annually to promote the ideals of peace and encourage the cessation of hostilities and non-violent approaches to resolving conflicts.
The event, organised by the Office of Interfaith Affairs in conjunction with the International Organisation for Peacebuilding and Social Justice, will bring together stakeholders from different faiths and sections of society to promote peace, unity and social harmony.
The 2026 International Day of Peace is being commemorated under the theme: “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
According to the Special Assistant on Interfaith Affairs to Oyo state governor, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, the commemoration is geared towards strengthening collective commitment to peacebuilding and encouraging citizens to embrace dialogue, tolerance and peaceful resolution of differences.
He noted that peaceful coexistence remained essential to the continued development and stability of Oyo State, stressing that the benefits of development could only be sustained in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.
He urged residents to see their differences as an opportunity for mutual understanding rather than conflict, noting that religious and cultural diversity should not constitute a barrier to peaceful coexistence.
The event is scheduled to take place at the Local Government Staff Training School, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, from 10:00 a.m. prompt.
The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE, is expected to serve as the Chief Host.
Rev Ibikunle said the event would provide an opportunity for religious leaders, government officials, civil society organisations, community leaders and other stakeholders to renew their commitment to building a peaceful and inclusive society.
He called on residents and stakeholders to participate in the commemoration and contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening peace, unity and understanding across the state.