The 19th International Conference and General Assembly of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice (SPSP) has formally concluded with the election of a new National Working Committee (NWC), signaling a renewed phase of leadership for the society.

The electoral committee, chaired by Benjamin Ibientoye, announced the results at the closing plenary, where members affirmed their commitment to strengthening the Society’s role in advancing peace scholarship and practice across Nigeria and beyond.

The newly elected national officers are:

· President: Prof. Benjamin Aluko, fspsp

· Vice President (North): Dr. Muhammad Kudu Abubakar, fspsp

· Vice President (South): Prof. Chubuzor Nwobueze, fspsp

· Secretary General: Dr. John Tor Tsuwa, fspsp

· Assistant Secretary General: Ms. Simiat Abaru, mspsp

· Publicity Secretary: Mr. Bode Ojomu, mspsp

· Treasurer: Dr. Shehu Hashim, mspsp

· Financial Secretary: Mrs. Bimbo Alabi, mspsp

The election of the executive committee, which took place during the final session of the just-concluded conference, was met with applause and optimism from delegates.

In his remarks, the outgoing President, Mr. Nathaniel Msen Awuapila, fspsp, commended members for their trust in the new leadership and expressed deep confidence in the capacity of the incoming team.

“This Society has once again demonstrated its strength in democratic governance and institutional continuity. I congratulate Prof. Aluko and the entire executive. On behalf of the outgoing NWC, I assure you that the handover process will be concluded no later than January 12, 2026, marking our three full years in office,” he said.

He urged the new executives to build on the progress recorded in the last administration and to continue strengthening SPSP’s footprint in peacebuilding research and national dialogue.

Accepting the mandate of the members, the newly elected President, Prof. Benjamin Aluko, fspsp, described the election as a call to service and promised to steer the Society toward deeper impact.

“I am humbled by the confidence reposed in me. This new executive is committed to elevating SPSP’s scholarly relevance, expanding our partnerships, and ensuring that our work continues to influence policy and practice at all levels,” he said.

He emphasized that the Society must remain a thought leader in the pursuit of peace, social cohesion, and conflict transformation.

Delegates at the conference expressed optimism that the new leadership will consolidate the Society’s legacy while introducing innovative approaches to peace research, training, and advocacy.

As the Society prepares for its next administrative cycle, expectations remain high for a future defined by strengthened collaboration, improved institutional capacity, and broader regional engagement.

Congratulations to the newly elected leadership of SPSP.