LASU HOSTS 2026 MODEL UN SUMMIT, URGES STUDENTS TO CHAMPION GLOBAL PEACE (PHOTOS)

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Lagos State University (LASU) has charged young people to embrace diplomacy, leadership, and multilateral cooperation as tools for promoting global peace and addressing contemporary challenges.

The call was made during the 2026 edition of the Lagos State University Model United Nations (LASUMUN) Summit organised by the Department of History and International Studies.

Held under the theme “Be the Light, Lead the World,” the summit brought together students to simulate United Nations proceedings while engaging in discussions on global issues, conflict resolution and international cooperation.

Declaring the summit open, the Head of Department, History and International Studies, Professor Bashir Animashaun, said challenges such as climate change, economic instability, technological disruption, and regional conflicts require collective action beyond national boundaries.

He described diplomacy as humanity’s most effective pathway to resolving disputes in an increasingly divided world, urging participants to view the Model United Nations beyond an academic exercise.

Animashaun encouraged the delegates to embrace lifelong commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, and the pursuit of global peace.

The Dean, Faculty of Arts, Professor Ayo Ayodele, commended the participants for demonstrating the principles of diplomacy through their involvement in the summit.

Ayodele said true leadership is built on service, integrity, and knowledge, describing the gathering as “an embryo of what the world should be.”

He urged the delegates to develop critical thinking, effective communication, and global citizenship, noting that these values are essential in addressing shared human challenges.

Representing the United Nations Secretariat, Adeyemi Oluwabukunmi said the organisation was created after devastating global conflicts to promote cooperation, peace, justice, and sustainable development through dialogue.

She urged participants to approach discussions with respect, diplomacy, and open-mindedness, charging them to become ambassadors of peace, justice, and unity.

A major highlight of the summit was the plenary session, where delegates representing countries including Nigeria, the United States, South Africa, Israel, China, Brazil, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom presented positions on global challenges.

The delegates discussed issues including terrorism, poverty, youth development, climate change, and international conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine and Iran–Israel crises.

They emphasised the importance of diplomacy, international partnerships, and collective responsibility in promoting global security and sustainable development.

The summit also featured cultural and musical performances celebrating peace, unity, and diversity among nations.