The Peace in South East Project (PISE-P), a not-for-profit organization, has unveiled a comprehensive six-month action plan aimed at implementing its eight thematic pillars with the goal of fostering peace and development in the region. The pillars encompass education, agriculture, commerce/industry, infrastructural development, culture and tourism, sports/entertainment, governance/leadership, and reconciliation/rehabilitation/reintegration.
The strategic plan, disclosed on December 29, 2023, is expected to bring about positive changes in education, healthcare delivery, and other developmental initiatives. According to a statement released on Sunday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the six-month operational plan has been meticulously designed by experts to address socio-economic challenges, enhance security and peacebuilding, engage stakeholders, implement strategies, manage resources efficiently, monitor and evaluate progress, and raise awareness to promote Sustainable Development Goals.
Hon. Kalu, the Deputy Speaker, emphasized that the project aims to achieve conflict integration and peacebuilding, enhance access to education and healthcare, promote infrastructural development, empower and build capacity, engage communities, and establish sustainable peace and stability. The plan also envisions a percentage increase in job opportunities for women, assesses income levels, and advocates for business development in the region.
Furthermore, Kalu disclosed plans for a town hall meeting in April 2024, bringing together lawmakers from Abia, Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, and Enugu states to discuss strategic lawmaking, conflict resolution, and other pertinent issues.
The Deputy Speaker extended an appeal to armed individuals still in hiding, urging them to surrender their weapons to security agencies. He assured them of opportunities for gainful employment, emphasizing a commitment to treating them as brothers rather than resorting to violence.
Kalu expressed optimism, stating, “There is hope for them because we are going to get them gainfully employed. They are our brothers. They are not going to be slaughtered or wasted. We are going to bring them closer and make them have a sense of importance.”
