By Daily Hope24 Online
The Borno State Government, in partnership with the Peace Ambassadors Centre for Humanitarian Aid and Empowerment (PACHE), has used creative arts and entertainment to promote peace and social cohesion across the state.
The event took place on Wednesday, 27 January 2025, at the Open Air Theatre, Shehu Laminu Way, Maiduguri, bringing together government officials, artists, civil society organisations, security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, women and youth groups, and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the programme, Borno’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, said that despite years of Boko Haram insurgency, peace and development had continued to advance in the state.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to changing Borno’s image from a conflict zone to a home of peace and encouraged residents to promote peace in their daily lives, including through entertainment.
Prof. Tar highlighted the collaboration between the state government, federal authorities, and development partners as central to sustaining peace in Borno.
Ahmed Shehu, president of PACHE, said the “Entertainment for Peace” initiative used spoken word poetry, music, cultural performances, and creative arts to foster dialogue, tolerance, and social cohesion.
He explained that the programme gave young people a platform to express messages of peace and inspired them to become advocates within their communities.
Organisers said the event had strengthened youth engagement, increased awareness of peacebuilding, and improved interaction among community members and leaders.
The presence of government officials and stakeholders reinforced the collective message of unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
Prof. Tar added that creative arts complemented development efforts by providing safe and inclusive spaces for dialogue and collaboration, contributing to long-term social harmony in the state.
