More than 450 young delegates from 22 countries have been charged to play a greater role in advancing peace, sustainable development and human rights at the 10th edition of the Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN) held at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.
The conference, themed “Better Together: A Decade of BIMUN Advancing the United Nations’ Vision for Peace, Development and Human Rights,” brought together students, diplomats and development partners to discuss global challenges and the role of young people in shaping a more peaceful world.
Declaring the conference open, President/Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Afolarin Ojewole, described BIMUN as a platform for peace-building and sustainable development. He urged participants to embrace integrity, vision and service in leadership.
According to him, every generation has defining moments and today’s youth must choose to build bridges rather than barriers, noting that true leadership is measured by character, vision and a commitment to serving others.
Representing the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Peace and Development Officer, Kehinde Osotimehin, said challenges such as conflict, climate change, poverty, inequality and misinformation require collective action.
She reminded delegates that they are “leaders of today,” not just tomorrow, and urged them to apply the principles of dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect in their communities, in line with the UN Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security.
Osotimehin said the United Nations has supported BIMUN over the past decade, expressing confidence that the future of peace would be shaped by young people who choose cooperation over conflict.
In a keynote address, Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi stressed the importance of education in fostering unity and sustainable development. He called on young people to become agents of change, saying leadership should be judged by its impact, accountability and service rather than rhetoric.
He also urged leaders to listen to the people and work collectively to promote human rights and inclusive development. Founder and Strategist of BIMUN, Samuel Chiemela, said the conference has produced over 6,450 alumni from 21 countries since its inception, many of whom now serve in government, civil society and international organisations.
Obi said the goal of this year’s conference was to provide delegates with practical diplomatic experience by exposing them to the same committee structures and negotiation processes used at the United Nations.
Babcock International Model United Nations is Nigeria’s first private university-organised Model United Nations conference. Over the past decade, it has served as a platform for developing leadership, diplomacy and negotiation skills among young Africans while promoting the ideals of peace and sustainable development.
The event had in attendance Officers of Babcock University, President of the BIMUN 10th General Assembly, Oluomachukwu Okoli, with Under Secretary General Global Communication: Jojo Ebibode, Secretary General, Joseph Malekela and Under Secretary General Political Affairs, Racheal Amaku among other Dignitaries.
