Chidinma Iroegbu
Vice President of Infrastructure, Special Duties, Partnerships and Industrial Relations of the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission, Arch. Felix Arome, has called for value reorientation and discipline across Africa as part of efforts to address insecurity, banditry and social unrest on the continent.
Arome spoke during the Africa Day 2026 celebration in Abuja, where he said poor moral upbringing and negative indoctrination have contributed to rising violence and intolerance in many African societies.
He warned that insecurity often begins with harmful beliefs developed from childhood, stressing that many young people grow up normalising violence against those with opposing views.
“When you talk about peace and silencing the guns, they don’t understand what you are talking about,” Arome said.
The Pan-African official stated that Africa’s progress depends on responsible leadership, discipline and stronger community values capable of promoting peaceful coexistence.
He urged parents and elders to demonstrate good conduct in everyday activities, including obedience to traffic rules and respect for public order.
According to him, children imitate the actions of adults, adding that weak moral standards among leaders and parents contribute to confusion and poor social behaviour among youths.
Arome also advised Africans against judging others based on stereotypes, saying understanding different cultures and backgrounds is necessary for unity and cooperation.
Drawing from his recent experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, he said he observed high levels of discipline and orderliness despite economic and fuel challenges facing residents.
He further called for sustained dialogue and engagement among African countries, particularly between Nigerians and South Africans, noting that constructive conversations would help strengthen unity and promote lasting peace across the continent.