IPCR to Train One Million Youths in Conflict Management to Mark 25th Anniversary.

By Caroline Ameh

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has announced its plan to train one million Nigerian youths in basic conflict management as part of its 25th-anniversary celebrations.

The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, disclosed this initiative while receiving executive members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) on a courtesy visit.

Describing the program as a milestone in the Institute’s history, Dr. Ochogwu stated, “This year, the Institute turns 25, and to commemorate this, my bold vision is to equip one million Nigerian youths with fundamental conflict management skills. The training will be digital and entirely free—participants only need internet access to log in, complete the courses, pass assessments, and receive certification.”

According to him, the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, addressing key national priorities such as inclusion, security, and foreign policy under the 4D framework. It also aims to enhance young Nigerians’ understanding of government policies on conflict resolution.

Dr. Ochogwu further highlighted the crucial role of the media in conflict resolution, emphasizing, “The media is central to our work. If you want to drive change in any society, the media’s role is indispensable.”

In response, the Chairman of DICAN, Mr. Idehai Frederick, welcomed the initiative and expressed his association’s willingness to collaborate with the Institute.

“We are a network of over 60 journalists covering Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, embassies, and the wider diplomatic community. Our members cut across print, electronic, online, and wire services, ensuring balanced and professional coverage of international affairs,” he stated.

He also underscored the professionalism and discipline of diplomatic correspondents, adding, “Diplomacy requires decorum and expertise, and as journalists, we uphold these values in our reporting and engagements.”

The IPCR’s digital training initiative is expected to provide young Nigerians with essential conflict resolution skills, empowering them to contribute to peacebuilding efforts across the country.