The Chairman of Lagos SWAN, Olatutu Oladunni has explained the necessity of our environmental security and societal integration via diplomatic ties which is the major hallmark of capitalisation, trade, investment and cultural growth of a progressive society.
Oladunni was speaking during a recent visit to the Indian community in Lagos in company of the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adegoke Fayoade.
According to her, diplomatic ties that exist among nations become a decisive factor of excellence of economical growth and revenue generation which reflects in a succesfull security sector.
She noted that in today’s world, sports has become more than just a form of entertainment or competition. It has become a powerful tool for diplomacy and fostering international relations. The interconnectedness of sports, security, and diplomacy has opened up new opportunities for nations to come together, build bridges, and enhance cooperation. Through re-considering and re-negotiating policies via dialogue, countries can strengthen security efficiency, diplomatic ties to bind force of integration that promotes inclusiveness.
Sports, with its universal appeal, has the ability to transcend borders, language, and culture, bringing people together in a shared passion for athletic competition.
This common ground provides a unique platform for countries to engage in friendly competition, create bonds, and promote mutual understanding. Sporting events, such as the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, and various international tournaments, serve as opportunities for nations to showcase their talents, foster sportsmanship, and promote unity.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, CP Adegoke Fayoade emphasized that security and diplomacy are two crucial elements of foreign relations that go hand in hand in ensuring peace, stability, and cooperation among nations. While they are often seen as separate entities, the reality is that they are closely intertwined and interdependent.
The police boss noted that the relative nature of security and diplomacy requires a re-evaluation and re-negotiation of policies through dialogue in order to strengthen security efficiency and diplomatic ties between nations.
The CP lagos said: “The inseparable link between sports, security, and diplomacy also presents challenges. Major sporting events can be targets of security threats. This requires countries to work together to ensure the safety and security of athletes, officials, and spectators byy re-evaluating security protocols and policies through dialogue, communities, states, nations etc can collaboratively address security concerns, share intelligence, and coordinate efforts to mitigate risks.
CP Lagos State Command commended Lagos SWAN chairman for the laudable Initiative to establish a security dialogue with Indian nationals across Nigeria.
He said Oladunni’s diplomatic experience is nothing but a multi-dimensional one that is having positive impact in our society, adding that her background in sports and now using it in a dynamic way of integrating the society is highly commendable and that is what diplomacy is all about.
“Oladunni’s diplomatic partners Ambassador (Dr) Kirti and KKF Foundation is a great development of positivity to progressive Lagos and Nigeria as a whole.
“Moreover, sports diplomacy has the potential to enhance diplomatic ties between countries, serving as a catalyst for dialogue, cooperation, and conflict resolution. Through sports exchanges, cultural exchanges, and joint initiatives, nations can break down barriers, build trust, and promote mutual respect,” CP Fayoade said.
In this same vein, the Corporate Affairs Manager of Shodan Travels and Tours, Ambassador Prince Olubunmi Obinuga, said that the diplomatic engagement initiated by Lagos SWAN Chairman, Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni and Ambassador kirti alongside CEO Shodan Travels and Tours, will not only strengthens bilateral relations bewtewn Nigeria and India, but will also fosters a sense of community and interconnectedness among nations.
Obinuga said that by embracing sports as a tool for diplomacy and integration, countries can promote inclusiveness, unity, and mutual understanding.
To the CEO of Shodan Travels and Tours, Ambassador Prince Olasebikan, the synergy between sports, security, and diplomacy offers immense opportunities for nations to work together, build bridges, and foster peace, making the world a better place for all.
He said that by re-considering and re-negotiating policies through dialogue, nations can work together to identify common interests, goals, and values that will strengthen security efficiency and diplomatic ties.
According to him, this process of dialogue allows for a more nuanced and flexible understanding of security threats and diplomatic opportunities, enabling countries to respond effectively and adapt to changing circumstances.
Meanwhile, the entire Indian community embrace this initiative and commended CP Lagos State Command, Ambassador Oladunni Olatutu of SWAN Lagos chapter, Shodan Travels and Tours and of course their very own amiable daughter and Ambassador, Ambassador Kirti and the sophisticated KKF Foundation for their unrelenting commitment and outstanding support towards community building and character development.
The Indian community believes the initiative can help prevent crimes, conflicts, resolve disputes, and promote peaceful resolution of conflicts, ultimately leading to a more stable and prosperous world.
Ambassador kirti concluded that the relative nature of security and diplomacy demands a re-evaluation and re-negotiation of policies through dialogue in order to strengthen security efficiency and diplomatic ties between nations. By working together, countries can address common challenges, build trust, and promote peace and cooperation, leading to a more secure and prosperous world for all.
She, therefore, commended the team work of two women involved her humble self representing the face of Indian and her diplomatic colleague, Ambassador Oladunni and their co team members at Shodan Travels for the amazing success.
Like Oliver Twist, Ambassador Kirti called for more support for the initiative
