The UN says the celebration of its 77th anniversary with “Walk the Talk” aims to promote good health and the need for peaceful co-existence globally.

Walter Kazadi, country representative, WHO Nigeria, said this in Abuja on Saturday during the walk the talk peace awareness exercise.

He said the day’s theme is “The UN and Nigeria: partnership for peace, prosperity and sustainable development”.

Mr Kazadi said the day was celebrated every October 24, which the agencies intended to start with a healthy activity called ‘walk the talk’.

“We are celebrating the 77th anniversary of the UN system, which was established in the aftermath of the Second World War.

“It is a collective commitment for member states to avoid war and the consequences that we saw during the second world war.

“It was also established to put a mechanism for lasting peace, solidarity and mutual cooperation so that all the nations will avoid what happened during the war,’’ he said.

According to him, Nigeria has supported development initiatives for her people and has been an active partner in global multilateralism.

Mr Kazadi said Nigeria was an active member of the UN and, over the years, has made significant contributions to peacekeeping operations.

He said there would be an exhibition to showcase the works of the UN agencies on Monday on the green lawn, the UN House.

“All agencies need to ensure there is balanced equilibrium between maintaining peace and balanced right to health.

“Without peace and good health, there will be no development,’’ he said.

Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary permanent representative to ECOWAS, said the country was faced with very difficult issues, which are poverty and a certain level of food insecurity.

Mr Kazuyoshi said the walk was an event to show solidarity and concerted efforts to overcome difficult issues.

“This walk will show the world that there is hope for a better future,’’ he said.

James Christoff, High Commissioner, Canada High Commission, said the walk was an opportunity to unite with colleagues from the international community and the UN community, in solidarity to promote peace.

(NAN)