Influential leaders in Delta State, particularly in the Warri Federal Constituency area that is co-habited by the indigenous Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic nationalities, have been told to use their influence "to allow the tide of peace to flow" in the state.

The call was made by the Executive Director of Endybekx Initiatives for Children and Women Development (EBICWD), Ambassador Endurance Nwachukwu, as the world marks the 2025 edition of the International Day of Peace on Sunday, September 21, 2025.

The EBICWD Executive Director who condemned the breeding of hatred among Deltans reminded them of the benefits of peace and that it is the responsibility of everyone to play their part in promoting peaceful coexistence in the state especially as victims of the last experienced crisis are yet to recover from the mayhem.

She said, "As the world celebrates the 2025 International Day of Peace, it is the right time to call on every Niger Deltan to Preach Peace, Act Peace, Build Peace, and Sustain Peace.

"Today, I speak to the heart and conscience of every mother, wife, sister, aunt, and daughter of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo tribes: this is the time to use our God-given influence to allow the tide of peace to flow—from within us, to our homes, to our communities, across Delta State, and throughout the Niger Delta region.

"We can no longer fold our hands and allow the flames of hatred and war to consume us, while many are still yet to recover from the last conflict. Instead, let us reflect on the many benefits peace has brought us in times past—ranging from personal well-being (reduced stress, greater happiness, improved health), to societal progress (economic growth, social stability, and stronger communities)," she stressed.

Amb. Nwachukwu further stressed on the importance of peace which must be guarded as well as reminded the actors of violence that its effects are felt more by women and children who are the most vulnerable, as well as other negative effects that come with armed conflict.

"Peace is a vital tool for the development of any nation—one we must never trade for anything. As a matter of urgency, we must guard it with everything at our disposal. The very essence of our existence is made possible through peaceful co-existence. As the African philosophy of 'Ubuntu' reminds us, 'I am because we are.' Peace is golden, priceless, and even the Holy Book admonishes us to 'follow peace with all men.'

"The devastating effects of violence fall most heavily on women and children, the most vulnerable in conflict-prone environments. They bear the advanced consequences—poverty, sexual exploitation, sometimes even being used as sex slaves—along with unemployment and deepened inequality in a patriarchal society like ours.

"Peace nurtures constructive conflict resolution, strengthens relationships, enhances creativity, and fosters a focused, present state of mind. This positive environment benefits everyone—individually and collectively," and added “On this International Day of Peace, I encourage us all to prioritize peace and put this year’s theme into action.”

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