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IPCR Urges Muslim To Pray For Peace, Development Of Nigeria
IPCR Urges Muslim To Pray For Peace, Development Of Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
The Director General of Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has called Muslim Umma in Nigeria on the occasion of Eid al-Adha to pray for peace and development of Nigeria.
Ochogwu, while extending his warmest congratulations to Muslims in the country on the occasion of the festival, said the “Festival of Sacrifice” is a celebration of faith, obedience and devotion. He urged Nigerians to acknowledge the values of sacrifice, compassion, generosity that are embodied in the spirit of Eid al-Adha.
Ochogwu, also charged Nigerians regardless of their religious beliefs or backgrounds, to use this occasion to promote peace, unity, love and harmony, noting that without these virtues a nation is far from development.
He said occasion like this call for a sober reflection, insisting that “our minds should dwell on those things that bind us together and also capable of promoting development in the country.”
He said that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is aware of the current challenges in our country and is working round the clock to ensure that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
He however charged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s administration in his steady steps to make Nigeria great.
He noted that Mr. President’s decisions are geared towards revamping the economy, block all loopholes, curtail insecurity, promote businesses and infrastructural developments amongst other things.
Appealing to Nigerians to give the government of President Tinubu more time, Ochogwu said this is the right occasion, the celebration of Eid al-Adha, a significant event in the Islamic calendar, where Nigerians should acknowledge the values of sacrifice, compassion, generosity that are embodied in this celebration.
He said that the Institute is aware of the enormous challenges facing the country, but charged Nigerians to keep hope alive and continue to have faith that a new Nigeria will rise from the ashes of these challenges.
Ochogwu said: “Let our thoughts and actions be peaceful, tolerant, and receptive towards one another as this is the only organic means to change the dangerous narrative that has eaten deep into our social fabrics and national cohesion. Nigerians should rise up with one accord to build a nation of our dream.
“I congratulate all Nigerians on this auspicious occasion and wish everyone a happy Eid al-Adha.”
IPCR Urges Muslim To Pray For Peace, Development Of Nigeria
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
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