EBEN ENASCO REPORTING
In Edo State, a non-governmental organization says empowering Nigerian families is key to tackling insecurity and other social vices.
The Josemaria Escriva Foundation, JOSEF, made the call in Ekpoma during its 8th Annual Lecture and the unveiling of a proposed Resource Centre Project, on Tuesday
The event, held at Chosen Hotel, Ekpoma, on June 30th, was themed: “Household Havens: Forging Safer Nigerian Communities Through Empowered Families.”
It drew academics, traditional rulers, government officials, security agencies, religious leaders, teachers, students, and civil society groups.
Speaking to journalists, JOSEF’s Chief Responsibility Officer, Dr. Jude Obasanmi, said peace starts at home.
While maintaining that criminals come from families, Dr. Obasanmi believes that when families have access to quality education, healthcare, jobs and social services, they raise responsible citizens, not threats to society.
Guest lecturer, public affairs analyst Austin Isikhuemen, described the family as Nigeria’s first line of defence against insecurity.
He said while the government must secure lives and property, lasting peace depends on families instilling discipline, integrity, and respect for the law in children.
Isikhuemen cited over 3-point-6 million internally displaced Nigerians and 26-point-5 million facing severe food insecurity as drivers of crime. He urged more funding for security, education, healthcare, and job creation.
Earlier, JOSEF Board Chairman, Barrister J. B. Agbogun, reaffirmed the Foundation’s focus on education, healthcare, youth development, and community mobilisation.
Ambrose Alli University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eunice Omonzejie, praised JOSEF’s commitment to responsible governance through community engagement.
A major highlight was the unveiling of the proposed JOSEF Resource Centre in Ekpoma
The centre is planned as a hub for youth counselling, leadership training, family life education, mentorship, and research. Guests at the event pledged financial and material support for the project.
The Foundation says strengthening families remains its strategy for safer communities and a more peaceful Nigeria.