IPCR's Dr. Joseph Ochogwu Advocates Peace for 2027 Elections

On September 21, 2026, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), called for daily peace investment in Nigeria as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. Speaking at the 2026 International Day of Peace Commemoration Lecture in Abuja, he emphasized that peace should be viewed as a continuous process rather than a temporary response to crises.

Ochogwu highlighted that achieving democratic stability requires more than just elections; it necessitates ongoing commitment to justice, dialogue, inclusion, and respect for the rule of law. He identified critical areas needing attention, including farmer-herder relations, youth and women's grievances, misinformation, and social inclusion.

Ochogwu noted that the IPCR is actively working to prevent election-related conflicts through Early Warning and Early Response mechanisms and has engaged various stakeholders across Nigeria. Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, represented by Brig.-Gen. Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), also spoke about the state's investment in peacebuilding and the challenges posed by violent extremism and political instability.