UPF–Nigeria Holds Consultative Meeting on the Inauguration of the International Association for Peace and Economic Development (IAED)

Written by UPF-Africa

Wednesday, 30 July 2025

Abuja, Nigeria – The Universal Peace Federation (UPF–Nigeria) held a consultative meeting on the proposed inauguration of the International Association for Peace and Economic Development (IAED) at the Peace Embassy, Abuja. The meeting focused on strengthening economic cooperation, promoting sustainable business growth, and fostering international partnerships, particularly between Nigeria and China.

UPF–Nigeria Holds Consultative Meeting on the Inauguration of the International Association for Peace and Economic Development (IAED)

The session began shortly before 4:00 p.m. with an opening prayer offered by Ambassador Abdullahi Ibrahim Nda, followed by a brief video presentation introducing the mission of UPF and IAED. Guests and Ambassadors for Peace were warmly welcomed by Dr. George Charles Ikpot, Secretary General of UPF–Nigeria, who delivered the opening address.

Opening Remarks and Vision for IAED

In his remarks, Dr. Ikpot emphasized the importance of establishing a specialized economic body to encourage and enhance business development across Nigeria and beyond. He highlighted that IAED, as one of UPF’s core associations, will serve as a bridge between peacebuilding and economic empowerment by connecting investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers under shared values of cooperation and prosperity.

Insights on Nigeria–China Economic Collaboration

Chief Ambassador Tunde, drawing from his extensive experience in international trade, particularly with China, presented practical perspectives on how IAED could attract foreign investment. He underscored that China remains eager to invest in Nigeria, provided that the nation fosters an enabling business environment.

Key areas of interest he identified include:

• Investment in mineral resources and the facilitation of partnerships with Chinese investors;

• Training programs in fields such as aviation, engineering, and technology, including handset manufacturing;

• Mass housing development projects, with IAED coordinating land acquisition in collaboration with state governments and traditional leaders, ensuring local security;

• Automobile industry development, fostering cooperation between Chinese and Nigerian investors in car manufacturing and component production;

• Participation in the upcoming China Chamber of Commerce Summit on Agriculture and Mining (October 2025), encouraging Nigerian investors to actively engage.

• Creation of an IAED trade portal to ensure transparency, visibility, and global access to IAED activities;

• Establishment of an Investor Protection Unit to safeguard partnerships, working alongside traditional leaders;

• Regular seminars and conferences involving state governors and key stakeholders to expand UPF and IAED’s national influence.

Contributions from Stakeholders

Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Sani commended the initiative and shared his experiences in international business. He proposed that IAED establish a platform for idea exchange and problem-solving in economic and business development. He also called for:

• Regular economic and business seminars, training sessions, and summits;

• A focus on human capital development through impactful projects and programs;

• Greater representation of Nigerians at international events to ensure their voices contribute to global dialogue.

Several Ambassadors also shared valuable contributions, emphasizing the importance of:

• Visibility and engagement, ensuring Ambassadors for Peace participate actively in UPF programs;

• Distinguishing UPF Ambassadors by providing continuous education and leadership training;

• Leveraging the United Nations connection to elevate UPF–Nigeria’s national profile;

• Upholding high standards of character and integrity, as these define the credibility of Ambassadors for Peace;

• Decentralizing UPF projects across states for better reach and measurable impact;

• Developing programs that yield tangible results recognizable by both government and citizens.

Conclusion

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to accelerate the formal inauguration of IAED–Nigeria, positioning it as a catalyst for peace-driven economic development. Participants reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate in mobilizing investors, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening Nigeria’s international partnerships, particularly with China.