26th July, 2017
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
The Nigerian Peace Corps, South- West zone on Wednesday stormed the streets of Lagos to celebrate the passing of the bill establishing the Corps, as they praised the National Assembly for demonstrating deep sense of commitment to national security and development.
Zonal Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria South -West , Habib Mutairu said the security challenges in the country demanded complementary role from an organization like the Peace Corps
The Peace Corps brandished placards like,” Thank you acting president , ” we are peace Ambassadors”, God bless Nigeria, Truth Will wlways be pathway to peace,” ” We wish the president quick recovery , Thank you Nigeria for your support” National security is anchored on development,” among others.
“From here, it is the presidential accent, when Mr. President, Muhammad Buhari is to sign it, then passing it into law when he comes back. He has already recovered, he is just resting. This is the bill that will empower the entire youth of Nigeria, the teeming youths to be engaged and to contribute to the overall development of the nation.
“This will be in the areas of complementing the effort of the other security agencies. The Peace Corps stands for peace and you will agree with me that peace is germane to Nigeria at this time,” he said.
According to him, “The Corps will take a lot of youths off the streets. As you know, the issue of national security is anchored in national development and also, national development is anchored on security. Peace Corps would eliminate poverty and create jobs for youths.”
On issue of arms, Mutairu said, “We are not allowed to carry arms. We are an affiliate of African Union and the United Nations. Basically, it’s all about peace; the propagation and ensuring of peace. Our essence is to build moral values of people and to make them better. There’s room for volunteers, who’re ready to partner with us in this regard.”