International Day of Peace 2025: HRH Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi Urges Government, Stakeholders to Deepen Commitment to Sustainable Peace in Nigeria

Azzuzuama, Bayelsa State – As the world commemorates the International Day of Peace 2025, His Royal Highness Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi, the Eyewei (V) of Azzuzuama, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, and the Amananawei of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, has made a passionate appeal to the Nigerian government and all national stakeholders to intensify their efforts toward sustaining peace and fostering unity across the country.

Speaking through an official statement released on Sunday, HRH Dr. Torughedi stressed that peace is not just a moral ideal, but a strategic imperative for national development, economic growth, and investor confidence. His message was issued in commemoration of the International Day of Peace, celebrated globally every September 21st, with this year’s theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”

HRH Dr. Torughedi emphasized that sustained peace remains the only path to building a stable and prosperous Nigeria, especially in light of the country’s current socio-economic challenges. He noted that real progress can only be achieved when citizens, leaders, and institutions commit to dialogue, inclusiveness, justice, and social harmony.

> *“We must understand that peace is not a one-time event or seasonal message. It is a continuous process that requires deliberate actions from all levels of society — from the family unit to the highest levels of government,”* he stated.

> *“Our investors are watching. Our youths are watching. And the global community is watching. Sustainable peace is what gives confidence to invest, to build, and to thrive,”* he added.


The monarch paid particular attention to the youth population, whom he described as “critical stakeholders in the peace-building process.” Addressing the Niger Delta youths, Dr. Torughedi urged them to uphold the current atmosphere of relative peace in the region, warning that any return to violence would set the region back economically and socially.

> *“To the resilient and resourceful youths of the Niger Delta, I commend your efforts so far in maintaining peace. Let us remember that our future is in our hands. The economic activities currently witnessed in the region are possible because peace reigns. Let us preserve it, grow it, and guard it jealously.”*

The monarch’s comments come at a time when the Niger Delta, once notorious for militancy and unrest, has seen significant improvements in stability, opening up opportunities for oil and gas investments, agriculture, maritime businesses, and tourism.

HRH Dr. Torughedi also echoed global sentiments expressed by the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, who both advocate for inclusive approaches to peace as part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

> *“This year’s theme, ‘Act Now for a Peaceful World,’ calls on us all — individuals, communities, governments, and organizations — to take action. It’s not enough to wish for peace; we must work for it. Peace must begin in our homes, schools, workplaces, and places of worship,”* he said.

He further encouraged national leaders to address underlying causes of conflict such as poverty, marginalization, injustice, and unemployment, noting that addressing these root issues will significantly reduce violence and division across the country.

HRH Dr. Torughedi called on the Federal Government, State Governments, traditional rulers, civil society, and security agencies to collaborate more effectively in ensuring that peace-building strategies are both people-centered and sustainable.

> *“Peace is not the sole responsibility of governments or monarchs. It is a collective responsibility. However, those in positions of power must lead by example by promoting equity, fairness, good governance, and inclusive policies,”* he concluded.


The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. It is devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. Each year, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diplomacy, dialogue, and understanding in resolving global challenges.

This year’s theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” focuses on the urgent need for individuals and institutions to take proactive steps toward building peace, reducing conflict, and promoting sustainable development globally.

HRH Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi is a respected traditional ruler, peace advocate, and community leader. As the Eyewei (V) of Azzuzuama in Southern Ijaw and Amananawei of the FCT Abuja, he plays a significant role in regional and national dialogue on peace, development, and governance. He is also recognized for his contributions to youth empowerment and conflict resolution in the Niger Delta region.