Abuja: Former President Goodluck Jonathan has highlighted that the path to peace in society transcends the mere use of firearms, advocating for justice and equity as fundamental components. Jonathan, who was the guest of honour at the President’s Night organized by the Rotary Club of Asokoro, expressed these views through his representative, Retired Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petirin.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Petirin conveyed Jonathan’s perspective that peace is not simply the absence of conflict but requires the presence of fairness. Jonathan believes that while military might accounts for only about 30% of what is necessary for peace, the remaining 70% involves dialogue, negotiation, and mutual understanding. This philosophy was pivotal in restoring peace to Plateau State during his tenure.
The event also featured remarks from Mr. Babatunde Adetoba, the 24th President of the Rotary Club of Asokoro, who outlined the club’s contributions to the community. Adetoba highlighted the Rotary Club’s focus on key areas such as education, water, sanitation, and maternal health, emphasizing recent efforts like providing free cataract surgeries and donating five million Naira to a hospital.
He also mentioned the club’s outreach to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, where they donated medications, conducted eye screenings, and distributed glasses. Adetoba underscored Rotary’s commitment to polio eradication, noting the organization’s global expenditure of over 2.6 billion dollars on this cause.
Adetoba described charitable contributions as acts that can make significant impacts with minimal resources. He also stressed the importance of sustainability in the club’s projects to ensure lasting benefits. The President’s Night served as a platform to honour individuals who have significantly contributed to the club’s success over the year.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Stella Okotete, Executive Director of Business Development at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), and Hajiya Halima Buba, Managing Director of SunTrust Bank, were recognized for their outstanding societal contributions.