Each month, we share the stories of World BEYOND War volunteers around the world. Want to volunteer with World BEYOND War? Email greta@worldbeyondwar.org.
Location:
Nigeria
How did you get involved with anti-war activism and World BEYOND War (WBW)?
In 2000, there was a serious violent conflict in Kaduna State, Nigeria which was a reprisal attack as a result of the Zango-Kataf conflict among Muslims and Christians – leading to thousands of deaths and wanton properties destroyed.
My home was burnt down to ashes and we were forced to live in temporary housing. As a school girl, my education was affected and I suffered from hunger. I grew up as a teenager lacking some basic needs. My parents struggled to make ends meet.
This difficult life scenario sharpened my thinking, zeal, ambition and inspiration to build peace. Upon my graduation from university, I choose a career path to be a peace advocate. I work to promote peace, active tolerance and harmonious living among diverse people at all levels through advocacy, peace education and campaigning, so that the next generation will not experience or have their dreams shattered by violent conflicts. I am good at creating structures, strengthening systems and transforming human conflict-making behaviors.
Joining World BEYOND War and receiving the organizing training transformed me even further and equipped me with the necessary peace-building knowledge and skills. In May 2023 I launched the World BEYOND War Nigeria Chapter, where over 30 team members of professionals are working to end wars and abolish weapons of wars in Nigeria.
What kinds of WBW activities do you work on?
I conduct peace education and advocacy campaigns. As the chapter coordinator for WBW Nigeria, I manage communications for the chapter and facilitate various working groups within the chapter focused on different issue areas.
What’s your top recommendation for someone who wants to get involved with anti-war activism and WBW?
Just make up your mind, roll up your sleeves, and get started! Although fears and discouragement may cast doubt at times, be courageous and persevere. As a peace-builder you need to have sound mind and be non-judgemental and non-partisan. You need to be creative and innovative as well as knowledgeable and have a good understanding of what it takes to build peace. Remember that peace is everyone’s business. It doesn’t have parameters for measurements.
What keeps you inspired to advocate for change?
Without peace there will be no development. The vast funds currently spent on wars, insecurity, and procurement of weapons of war (ie. ammunitions) are enough to provide good roads, clean water and decent housing as well school and health facilities. Experience has shown that lack of education is a contributing factor as to why people engage in wars. As such, I am inspired to raise awareness about the plight of wars and provide the knowledge, skills and tools for peace-building. I work also to engage government, organizations and relevant stakeholders on policy decisions for the use of the military to resolve national issues. I aspire to see a world free of violence and people living together for peace.
Posted August 16, 2023.
2 Responses
Jane, your lived experience is v moving; thank you for sharing. Your resilient spirit is v powerful; you are inspiring so many. I am cheering you on from the Norfolk, Va area & send blessings & belief from afar… we both know that a better world is possible.
WOW Jane!
This is a great portrait of you, your life and your work.
I am so happy we get to work together on the West Africa film project.
And I hope that many other projects will follow for Peace in Nigeria, Senegal, and all countries in Africa and beyond!!!!!!!
Talk soon,
Marion