- Unveils 2026 peace, election plan
Amid concerns of drug abuse, cultism and electoral violence, Centrefor Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ-Africa) has unveiled its 2026 plan to promote non-violent elections and sustainable development in Niger Delta and Nigeria.
Addresing reporters while unveiling the Strategic Partnership Work Plan in Ugolo, Okpe Local Government of Delta State, National Coordinator, Sheriff Mulade, emphasised need to clamp down on drug abuse, cultism and social vices among young Nigerians, particularly pupils.
“Drug abuse and cultism are destroying the future of our children and undermining peace in our communities. That is why our 2026 plan prioritises early awareness campaigns to save lives and protect our future,” the organisation said.
CEPEJ also announced a Non-Violent Election Programme, to include civic and voter education, poll observers, training of peace monitors, and dialogue to promote peaceful, free and transparent elections.
“Elections should not be a battlefield. Through voter education and peace monitoring, we aim to reduce violence and promote tolerance among political actors,” CEPEJ noted.
The 2026 work plan outlines interventions in over 15 states, including Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Ondo, Lagos, Kano and FCT, covering peacebuilding, education, climate action, sports development, youth and women empowerment, governance and humanitarian support.
A major highlight is CEPEJ’s decision to re-present proposals for peacebuilding commissions in states to institutionalise conflict prevention and sustaining peaceful co-existence.
“Peacebuilding must go beyond projects. We are re-engaging governments to set up peacebuilding commissions to boost stability, attract investors and create jobs,” he said.
Other key initiatives include the Niger Delta Peace Support Fund, Back-to-School Educational Support Fund, climate and environmental awareness programmes, youth and women skills acquisition training, ethnic peace and unity football tournaments, ADR mediation centres, and humanitarian support for IDPs and disaster-affected communities.
CEPEJ stressed that these programmes are critical to improving livelihoods, reducing violence and building resilience, especially in the Niger Delta, where environmental degradation, unemployment and insecurity continue to threaten development.
CEPEJ also called on the Delta State Government to prioritise industrialisation as a pathway to economic growth and food security.
“For Delta State’s economy to grow, we need deliberate industrialisation backed by reliable electricity. Industrial growth will create jobs, boost food security and reduce poverty and restiveness,” the CEPEJ boss stressed.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, development partners, traditional institutions and communities through communication, collaboration and co-operation, to ensure the successful implementation of the 2026 plan.
