By Julius Peter
Dr Omolara Ogunbiyi Samuel has stressed the importance of peace and security to sustainable development, saying no meaningful development can take place in an environment where peace and stability are absent.
Ogunbiyi Samuel stated this shortly after she was honoured with an award and inducted by the African Institute of Management and Administrative Science (AIMAS) at the Africa 2026 Security Strategic Management Conference, held under the theme, “Countering Terrorism, Insurgency and Banditry in Africa for Optimum Productivity.”
She noted that peace remains a fundamental requirement for economic growth, social stability and the overall wellbeing of citizens, stressing that governments, institutions, organisations and individuals all have important roles to play in promoting a secure and peaceful society.
According to her, the persistent challenges of terrorism, insurgency and banditry across parts of Africa pose serious threats to development, investment, education, businesses and the general quality of life of citizens.
She maintained that addressing these security challenges requires collective commitment, strategic leadership, effective institutions and sustained collaboration among relevant stakeholders.
Ogunbiyi Samuel expressed appreciation to the organisers of the conference for recognising her contributions and considering her worthy of the honour and induction.
She described the recognition as an encouragement to do more in service to humanity and the development of her country.
While thanking AIMAS for the confidence reposed in her, she pledged to continue giving her best towards making positive contributions to mankind and national development.
She said the honour would further strengthen her resolve to contribute meaningfully to initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, productivity and sustainable development.
The Africa 2026 Security Strategic Management Conference brought together dignitaries from different parts of the country and beyond, including professionals from various fields, politicians, academics and other stakeholders.
The gathering provided an avenue for participants to deliberate on contemporary security challenges confronting Africa and explore strategic approaches to countering terrorism, insurgency and banditry.
Discussions at the conference also underscored the need for stronger institutional cooperation, professional expertise, effective security management and greater public participation in addressing threats to peace and development.
The conference highlighted the interconnected nature of security and economic productivity, with participants emphasising that a peaceful and stable environment is essential for businesses to thrive, investments to grow and citizens to realise their potential.
The recognition of Ogunbiyi Samuel formed part of the activities of the conference, with the award and induction serving as acknowledgement of her contributions and commitment to humanity and national development.
The event ended with renewed calls for stakeholders across Africa to strengthen their efforts towards building peaceful, secure and productive societies capable of supporting sustainable development.
