IPCR calls for increased investment in peacebuilding and conflict prevention

The Director-General of Nigeria’s Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Joseph Ochogwu, has called for increased investment in peacebuilding to prevent escalating conflicts. Speaking at the 2026 Peace and Dialogue Awards in Abuja, Ochogwu warned that the cost of failing to prevent conflict far exceeds the resources required to sustain peace.

Ochogwu highlighted a significant disparity in global spending, noting that while global military expenditure exceeded $2.4 trillion in 2024, peacebuilding spending remained below $60 billion, representing less than 2.5 percent of military costs. He advocated for a shift from reactive measures to proactive prevention, including investments in early warning systems, peace education, youth employment, and justice reform.

Addressing regional challenges, Ochogwu noted that West Africa and the Sahel face extremism, unconstitutional transitions, and climate-driven displacement. He emphasized that Nigeria’s specific security issues—ranging from banditry and extremism to separatist agitation—require targeted responses rather than blanket approaches. Emrah Ilgen, President of Ufuk Dialogue, supported the call, advocating for a whole-of-society approach involving community participation and dialogue.