UNILAG DVC Calls for Diplomacy Over Conflict in Universities as Experts Link Peace to Economic Growth

Muyiwa Falaiye, the University of Lagos’ Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), has emphasized the need of diplomacy in settling disputes inside academic institutions, cautioning that communication is still the best method for handling disagreements in academic settings.

Falaiye gave a talk on the topic of “Diplomatic Engagements for Economic Development: Exploring Opportunities and Tackling Challenges” at the UNILAG Master of Diplomacy and Strategic Studies yearly lecture series.

While conflict is unavoidable in human interaction, particularly in academic contexts, the professor of African Socio-Political Philosophy pointed out that the true difficulty is in how such differences are handled.

He asserts that “universities, as centers of diverse opinions and interests, must prioritise dialogue, negotiation, and tolerance to prevent crises and ensure stability.”

“While competition for resources and influence makes conflict an inevitable part of human interaction, the real challenge lies in how such conflicts are managed,” he stated.

He emphasized that diplomacy offers a methodical framework for settling conflicts amicably and that its applicability goes beyond international relations to include institutional and interpersonal interactions.

The globe still uses diplomacy rather than force to settle disputes, Falaiye continued, pointing out that even in cases of fierce rivalry, conversations frequently decide outcomes.

“Global peace over the decades has mostly been sustained not by military might, but by the consistent efforts of diplomats who manage conflicts, balance competing interests, and create room for dialogue even among adversaries.”

The don emphasized that peaceful coexistence depends on the commitment to prioritize negotiation over confrontation and encouraged students and aspiring diplomats to embrace logical participation and constructive discourse.

Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, also spoke and emphasized the wider role of diplomacy in promoting national development, especially through economic engagement.

Osaghae stated that economic diplomacy is the cornerstone of Nigeria’s foreign policy, pointing out that without a solid economic foundation, no nation can achieve significant worldwide influence.

He stated, “The greatest strength any country can have is its economy,” adding that countries with strong economics typically create cultures that are more stable and prosperous.

He went on to say that diplomacy is still a crucial instrument for peacefully accomplishing national goals, frequently succeeding in situations when force is ineffective.

The NIIA DG said that individuals, the corporate sector, and the diaspora are increasingly playing important roles in furthering national objectives, demonstrating how modern diplomacy has transcended governmental actors.

Salim Aljaberi, the Consul General of the United Arab Emirates, revealed that the UAE intends to strengthen its business connections with Nigeria and invest roughly ₦4.5 billion throughout Africa.

In order to facilitate travel for tourists, business professionals, and investors, direct flights between the UAE and Lagos will soon resume, according to Aljaberi, who also mentioned that Nigerian visa procedures had been streamlined.

In order to promote infrastructure development and increase investment prospects, he also revealed plans to collaborate with Nigerian real estate stakeholders.

Mudasiru Akanbi Ilupeju, the dean of the Faculty of Arts, stated in his remarks that the lecture series was intended to promote intellectual engagement and link scholarly conversation with developing international diplomatic trends.

 He said, “Our objective is to establish a setting where difficult concepts can be discussed and fresh viewpoints can flourish.”