A non-profit organization, the Peace Initiative Network, has unveiled plans to empower between 30 and 40 reformed cult members in the Sagamu area of Ogun State. Dr. Michael Sodipo, the founder and coordinator of the organization, made this announcement during a press conference held in Abeokuta. The conference preceded a two-day peace summit scheduled for Monday and Tuesday in Abeokuta.

Dr. Sodipo emphasized the organization’s collaboration with the Ogun State Police Command to integrate the former cultists into productive roles within society. He highlighted that the summit aimed to devise localized solutions to the security challenges confronting the state.

Providing background on the organization, Dr. Sodipo stated, “The Peace Initiative Network was established in 2004 in Kano, and the majority of our peace-building initiatives have been carried out in Kano and Plateau State.” He elaborated on how the organization had utilized sports as a tool for peace-building, leading to the empowerment of over 850 individuals, many of whom were formerly involved in criminal activities. These individuals have since been trained in various skills, enabling them to make positive contributions to the socio-economic development of their communities.