By Francis Sadhere, Delta
A renewed call for peace as a catalyst for economic revival dominated discussions on Thursday as the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) and partner organisations convened a one-day awareness programme in Warri, Delta State.
The event, held at Ugbori Town Hall and themed “Peacebuilding Awareness Creation for Peaceful Coexistence,” brought together community leaders, civil society groups, youth bodies, and women organisations from across Warri. Beyond the general push for peaceful coexistence, speakers repeatedly linked the region’s economic decline to decades of inter-ethnic conflicts.
National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Comrade (Chief) Mulade Sheriff, Ph.D., set the tone when he lamented the disappearance of industries and seaports that once made Warri a thriving commercial hub. He noted that persistent disputes among ethnic groups helped drive investors away.
“In the 80s, you couldn’t distinguish the Ijaw from the Itsekiri,” Mulade recalled. “But crisis after crisis pushed companies out of Warri. Today, politics has become the only viable occupation because the real jobs left with the industries.”
Mulade emphasized that restoring peace was crucial to attracting investment and reviving the local economy. “A home without peace is prison,” he said. “If Warri must grow again, residents must choose dialogue over hostility.”
Other speakers echoed similar concerns, highlighting how instability has eroded opportunities for youths and increased economic pressure on families.
Mrs. Bridget F. Affiah, Executive Director of Ideal Women Advancement, pointed out that women have become primary breadwinners as companies folded up. She urged women to acquire small-scale skills and youths to refuse exploitation by politicians.
Veteran community advocate, Mr. Bobby Omadeli, also linked unemployment to communal rivalry. “Without unity, we cannot survive,” he warned. “Peace is the only pathway for development to return to our communities.”
Resource person, Sylvester Okoh, offered a glimmer of hope, revealing that a new company was preparing to commence operations in Delta State. However, he cautioned that investors would only remain if the environment stays peaceful.
“Conflicts are normal, but managing them is what ensures progress,” he said. “Listening, tolerance, patience, and respect must guide our engagements.”
Through lectures, interactive sessions, and peace advocacy engagements, participants explored ways to rebuild trust and reshape Warri’s reputation as a once-booming economic and cultural center.
Attendees described the programme as not only timely but essential for restoring confidence among stakeholders and encouraging communities to take collective responsibility for peace.
