14/09/2026
OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE
ISSUED BY DR. JOHNSON OSAS OHENHEN
Member, West Africa Advisory Council, World Citizen Peace Ambassador Centre
RE: ADVANCING REGIONAL PEACEBUILDING AND THE RECENT INDUCTION OF OVER 50 NEW PEACE AMBASSADORS
Preamble & Reflection on the Journey
As a member of the West Africa Advisory Council of the World Citizen Peace Ambassador Centre, my journey has been anchored in a singular, non-negotiable mission: mobilizing youth, building sustainable leadership structures, and establishing grassroots peacebuilding initiatives across the sub-region.
Navigating the complex socio-economic landscape of West Africa requires more than symbolic gestures—it demands actionable frameworks, strategic capacity building, and unyielding advocacy for human dignity, justice, and empowerment. Through active collaboration with community stakeholders, regional networks, and global allies, our commitment remains focused on equipping emerging leaders with the tools to resolve conflict and foster sustainable development.
The Recent Milestone: "Induction of Over 50 New Peace Ambassadors"
In alignment with our strategic mandate to scale peace advocacy and community resilience across West Africa, the World Citizen Peace Ambassador Centre recently convened a landmark induction ceremony in Ikeja, Lagos State.
During this historic gathering, over 50 exceptional leaders, change-makers, and youth advocates were officially inducted and certified as World Citizen Peace Ambassadors.
Key Highlights of the Induction:
* Rigorous Screening & Orientation: The inductees underwent a thorough evaluation process, demonstrating proven track records in community service, civic engagement, and conflict resolution.
* Charge to Action: The new ambassadors were formally charged to operate as frontline peacebuilders, leveraging their respective platforms to drive mediation, socio-economic empowerment, and youth development within their communities.
* Strategic Expansion: This new cohort significantly strengthens our operational footprint across West Africa, expanding our collective capacity to address grassroots vulnerabilities before they escalate into wider conflict.
Strategic Imperatives Moving Forward-
The West Africa Advisory Council reinforces its commitment to supporting this new cohort of Peace Ambassadors through structured mentorship, cross-border collaboration, and strategic alignment with global agendas, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
| Focus Area | Core Objective | Key Deliverable |
| Youth Empowerment | Mitigate conflict drivers through capacity development. | Vocational, educational, and mentorship programs for vulnerable demographics. |
| Civic Advocacy | Promote human rights and social justice across communities. | Grassroots peace campaigns and local conflict resolution workshops. |
| Institutional Partnerships | Strengthen linkages between civil society and international bodies. | Joint initiatives aligned with UN SDG Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). |
Conclusion & Call to Action
The induction of over 50 Peace Ambassadors is a testament to the growing momentum of peace advocacy in West Africa. Peace is not an abstract concept; it is a continuous, deliberate practice built on equity, opportunity, and shared responsibility.
To our newly inducted Peace Ambassadors: the mantle of leadership is now in your hands. As we work together across borders and sectors, let our shared resolve remain unwavering: to build a West Africa where peace, human dignity, and opportunity flourish for all.
Signed,
Dr. Johnson Osas Ohenhen JP, CMC, FIMC
Member, West Africa Advisory Council
World Citizen Peace Ambassador Centre
