By Aaron Ossai
A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Inuwa Garba (APC–Gombe), has pledged to spearhead fresh peace initiatives, including a major dialogue on Nigeria’s persistent farmer-herder crisis, following his investiture as a Global Peace Ambassador.
Garba, who represents Yamaltu/Deba Federal Constituency of Gombe State, made the pledge on Thursday in Abuja after being inaugurated by the World Human Rights and Peace Commission (WHRAPC-Nigeria).
Describing the honour as a call to greater service rather than a personal achievement, the lawmaker said it would strengthen his resolve to promote peace, justice, dialogue and the protection of human dignity.
“I accept this honour with a deep sense of responsibility. Being found worthy through the commission’s rigorous selection process is a privilege I will always cherish. The confidence reposed in me will inspire me to work even harder in advancing the ideals of peace, justice and human dignity, not only in Nigeria but across the world,” Garba said.
He assured the commission that the recognition would translate into concrete action, noting that Nigeria and the global community continue to grapple with violent conflicts, insecurity, climate change and social unrest.
“I sincerely thank the leadership and members of this commission for extending this honour to me, my family, my constituency and indeed the House of Representatives. I assure you that your confidence in me will not be in vain,” he said.
Garba said his legislative experience and engagement with international organisations had equipped him to drive meaningful conflict resolution and peaceful coexistence.
“Peace is everyone’s responsibility, and we must all work together to ensure harmony within our homes and communities. I will not merely serve as an ambassador in name; I intend to become a bridge that unites people,” he said.
The lawmaker announced plans to convene a comprehensive peace and dialogue symposium in his constituency as part of efforts to address the long-running farmer-herder conflict, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced communities across Nigeria.
Presenting the award, Deputy Country Coordinator of WHRAPC-Nigeria, Ambassador Lawal Ribah, described Garba as an accomplished legislator whose public service has been marked by integrity, visionary leadership and commitment to democratic values.
Ribah said Garba’s political career—from serving as a member, Deputy Speaker and Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly to representing Yamaltu/Deba in the House of Representatives—reflects a consistent dedication to good governance, accountability, economic development and social justice.
He added that Garba has sponsored bills promoting entrepreneurship, agriculture, scientific innovation and institutional development, while championing motions on healthcare, infrastructure, industrialisation, security, disaster management, electricity, environmental protection and citizens’ welfare.
According to Ribah, Garba has also delivered impactful constituency projects focused on youth and women empowerment, education, healthcare, rural electrification, agriculture, employment generation and infrastructure.
He said the lawmaker’s contributions extend beyond Nigeria through his participation in parliamentary organisations and policy forums dedicated to democracy, ethical leadership, peacebuilding and sustainable development.
“In recognition of his unwavering commitment to promoting peace, defending human dignity, advancing justice, strengthening democratic values, resolving conflicts and rendering humanitarian service, the World Human Rights and Peace Commission proudly confers on Hon. Inuwa Garba the distinguished title of Global Peace Ambassador,” Ribah declared.
Earlier, the Northern Regional Coordinator of WHRAPC-Nigeria, Ambassador Bashir Maradun, said the commission reserves the honour for individuals whose leadership inspires hope, promotes unity and advances humanity.
He described Garba as a leader distinguished by integrity, visionary leadership and a sustained commitment to community development and peaceful coexistence.
Also speaking, Rep. Bob Solomon (APC–Rivers) congratulated Garba on the recognition, describing it as well deserved.
Solomon, who said he had worked closely with Garba for more than three years in the National Assembly, praised him as a peaceful, humble and dependable leader whose dedication to public service has earned him international recognition.
