By: Our Reporter, Calabar
The Special Adviser to the Cross River state Governor on Non-indigenes Affairs, Mazi Okey Maduekwe, was among the personalities invited for the 5000 Peace Walk organized by Peace Walk initiative.
This year’s theme, “Bridges Not Barriers”, calls on all to rise above divisions and foster unity, understanding, and lasting peace within our communities.
According to the invitation, “Your role as an ambassador remains invaluable to the vision and impact of PEACE WALK”.
“Your voice, influence, and presence continue to inspire hope and promote peaceful coexistence. As such, your presence at this year’s event is not only important, it is essential, the invitation added.
“We are also delighted to announce a special highlight of this year’s gathering,the official unveiling of our icon of peace 2026, in the person of Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Mrs.Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, First Lady of Cross River State.”
This recognition honours her outstanding humanitarian contributions and unwavering commitment to peace and social development across the entire state.
The highlight of the event was the decoration of Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu as an Ambassador of Peace medal.
Speaking the Special Adviser said over three thousand women from different ethic nationality colourfully matched from Highway through Ekorinem in solidarity in the state capital.
Mazi Maduekwe recalled that the program coincided with the 62nd Birthday Celebration of her Excellency who was described as the engine room for the Peace and tranquility enjoyed in Cross River State.
He further remarked that 80 percent of the participants were non indigenes digenes I who were out to demonstrate their love for the peace they are enjoying in the State.
The group celebrated her and wished her many years in good health.
Earlier, Peace Walk International while celebrating a decade of sustained advocacy for peaceful coexistence, unity, and social harmony, with a renewed called for global peace and strengthened community engagement.
Speaking during activities marking the 10th anniversary, recently in Calabar, the Coordinator of Peace Walk International and Chairman of the Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Imam Kabeer Olowolayemo, described the milestone as a testament to God’s grace and the collective commitment of stakeholders to building bridges across divides.
He noted that over the past 10 years, the initiative has remained steadfast in promoting peace not only through advocacy but also through practical engagements within communities, stressing that peace remains a non-negotiable necessity for societal progress.
“As part of the anniversary celebration, the Wife of the Cross River State Governor, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, was honoured as the 2026 Peace Walk Ambassador in recognition of her contributions to promoting peace and social cohesion”.
Imam Kabeer explained that the recognition is particularly symbolic, as the Governor had received a similar honour a decade ago, making them “two peace ambassadors in one home.”
He commended the Cross River State Government, security agencies, and partner organizations for their support in advancing the objectives of the Peace Walk initiative, adding that the state stands as a strong example of the impact of sustained peace advocacy.
The coordinator also acknowledged the vital role of the media, including CRBC, Hit FM, FAD FM, Arise Television, AIT, and the Government House Press Crew, in amplifying messages of peace across the state and beyond.
Reaffirming the group’s commitment to global harmony, the Coordinator called on citizens and leaders worldwide to reject conflict and embrace peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that peace remains the ultimate path to development.
The 10th anniversary celebration attracted goodwill messages from across the country, with participants commending Peace Walk International for its consistency and impact in fostering unity over the years.
Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Mrs Eyoanwan Bassey Otu was decorated with the 2026 Peace Walk medal by the Special Adviser to the governor on Non-indigenes Affairs Mazi Okey Maduekwe.
