At a time when communities and organizations are seeking lasting approaches to peace through proactive measures, Nestl? is empowering young people with the skills they need to set up and run micro-enterprises in their communities. ODIMEGWU ONWUMERE observes that by promoting youth entrepreneurship, Nestl? not only helps them become self-reliant but also encourages them to contribute positively to their communities, thereby promoting peace through economic stability. The article explains how Nestl? Nigeria plays a key role in building peace in the communities through its multi-pronged approach of empowering young people through education and entrepreneurship while at the same time promoting positive social values. The article advises those seeking peace to understand that the company?s efforts go beyond individual growth to creating an environment in which young people can grow together

Concerned by the worsening insecurity in the country, groups such as the Kaduna-based civil rights and good governance group, Transparency Centre Network (TCN), petitioned the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Senator Bola Tinubu, the National Security Agency, NSA Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Minister of Defense, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru. A former chairman of the Imuhu Town Association in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Edwin Ossai, said he was surprised when peace returned to his community last year, as the town was the most peaceful area in the state before the emergence of criminals.

The people of the Imuhu community were on the run for two years due to the worsening insecurity in their community. They fled for their lives as kidnappings, armed robbery, and other arson were rampant. Many steps were taken seeking lasting peace in the community they call their own, but to no avail. But in the presence of community leaders, two Catholic priests, ?Onisi Imuhu? and Umuitodo, the (senior) traditional ruler, Agwu Obetta Nweze, and President Remigius Attah, a well-equipped neighborhood watch unit was inaugurated to monitor the community.

The peace long awaited by the Town Association, Lawrence Mama, the Head of Neighbourhood Watch of Enugu North Senatorial District, Anserem Odo, the District Police Officer (DPO) Igbo Eze North, CSP Simeon Akoru, the Umuada family, and others appears to have arrived.

?Today is also a notable day in the land of Imuhu Autonomous Community because we all know that peace is the most important prerequisite for the growth of a society and security of lives and property.

?For years, the always united, peaceful, and progressive land of the Imuhu community has been plagued by insecurity and discord that has caused sleepless nights to the entire community,? said her former president.

As Imuhu people roll on the ground in jubilation that peace has returned to their community, a new petition has been filed to Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State to investigate petitions of some non-governmental organizations relating to the secret activities of individuals and groups threatening to disturb the peace of the state.

The Nigerian Army is suspected of grabbing land through intimidation and slander. Arise News Now, dated January 15, 2024, states: ?Being a retired private of the Nigerian Army. The ex-corporal is accused of accompanying a large number of military personnel and causing tension in Enugu and its surrounding areas.

?The illegal use of military escorts for private purposes not only undermines the credibility of the military but also raises questions of justice and fairness in a democratic society.?

While unrest is apparently spreading in communities in the state, known as a trading hub for yams, cassava, maize, pigeon peas, palm products, rice, onions, and Igbo cattle, experts like Nestle say peace is not a dangerous condition.

Treating All People With Kindness

Community peace is strengthened, which leads to agreement and harmony among people. In the broadest sense, peace means life without violent conflict and war.

According to the food industry, ?Peace is the basis of our quality of life, the foundation of our communities, and as weapons become more powerful, the survival of people on earth depends on it.?

In its statement on its contribution to community peacemaking, the company said its mission is to treat all people with kindness, regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, etc. They also organize community peace rallies and advise people not to participate in any kind of violence.

?Peaceful countries tend to ensure equal access to resources such as education, health, and, to a lesser extent, a fair distribution of income.

?Peaceful nations not only enforce formal laws that guarantee fundamental human rights and freedoms, but also the informal social and cultural norms that govern the behavior of their citizens,? says Victoria Uwadoka, director of corporate communications, public affairs, and sustainability at Nestl? Nigeria.

Persuading Others to Promote Peace in Their Community

Nestl? identifies conflicts and builds relationships and trust within communities by using persuasion techniques, facilitating dialogue and negotiation, and encouraging positive contact between groups. Nestl? Nigeria says it is active in local peacebuilding efforts, with a particular focus on youth empowerment.

?This commitment is reflected in various programs aimed at providing young people with skills and opportunities that promote social cohesion and economic stability,? the company says.

For example, during the International Youth Day celebrations, Nestl? Nigeria?s Uwadoka, highlighted the company?s commitment to youth empowerment.

She says that this commitment is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8, which promotes sustainable and inclusive economic growth and decent work for all.

By providing training programs at its Technical Training Center in Agbara, Ogun State, Nestl? aims to develop young technical personnel who can contribute positively to society.

One of the key elements of Nestl??s strategy is its ?My Own Store street vending program.?

This initiative provides young people with the skills they need to start and run their own microenterprises.

?By encouraging youth entrepreneurship, Nestl? not only helps them become self-reliant but also encourages them to contribute positively to their communities, thereby promoting peace through economic stability,? says Uwadoka.

At Nestl??s youth engagement event, speakers emphasized the importance of hard work, resilience, and community involvement. For example, successful young entrepreneurs shared their experiences, highlighting how determination and focus lead to individual success while benefiting society at large.

Empowerment Taming Unrest

The story inspires young people to reject divisive practices such as tribalism and corruption that can undermine peace in societies.

Mauricio Alarcon, Managing Director and CEO of Nestl? Nigeria, called on young people to creatively harness technology to maximize their potential.

He believes that today's youth have an unprecedented opportunity to make a positive impact on a rapidly changing world. By fostering innovation and creativity among young people, Nestl? aims to raise a generation that values cooperation and social contribution over conflict.

Nestl? Nigeria plays a key role in community peacebuilding through its multi-pronged approach of empowering young people through education and entrepreneurship while promoting positive social values.

The company's efforts go beyond individual growth to create an environment where young people can succeed together. People familiar with the matter say Nestl? strives to resolve differences and conflicts at home, in the workplace, and in the community peacefully through dialogue and compassion and believes treating others with respect and practicing empathy promote peace.

?Onwumere is Chairman, Advocacy Network On Religious And Cultural Coexistence (ANORACC).

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