Conflict is an inevitable part of human existence. From family disputes to global crises, differences in values, interests, and perceptions often spark tensions that can either divide or strengthen relationships. Nigeria’s own history reflects this reality—insurgency, terrorism, communal clashes, brutality by law enforcement agencies, and separatist agitations have repeatedly tested national unity. Against this backdrop, the 9th Annual International Conference of the Association of Professional Counsellors in Nigeria (APROCON), held at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, provided a timely platform to rethink the role of counselling in conflict resolution.

Delivering the lead paper titled “Communication: A Critical Tool for Conflict Resolution,” Dr. Bilhatu Kumah Dagari of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, highlighted the centrality of communication in managing human differences. Conflict, she noted, is not inherently negative—it is the way we manage it that determines whether it becomes destructive or transformative.

Drawing on decades of scholarship, Dagari illustrated how poor communication—noise, bias, stereotypes, and misperceptions—often escalates conflict. Yet, with clarity, empathy, and active listening, communication becomes a bridge to mutual understanding. From the SOLER framework of listening to the careful use of “I-messages” in difficult conversations, her paper reminded participants that effective conflict resolution begins not in courtrooms or arbitration halls but in the simple act of speaking and listening with respect.

His insights resonated deeply with the conference’s thematic focus on mediation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution. For counsellors, the paper reaffirmed that their professional strength lies in guiding individuals and groups toward dialogue that heals rather than divides.

But if communication remains the heartbeat of counselling, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) poses new questions. Can machines replicate empathy? Should algorithms mediate conflicts?

APROCON did not shy away from these debates. According to APROCON’s National President, Prof. Osorochi Obi, sub-themes explored how technology can support—not supplant—the sacred human connection that defines counselling. She reminded participants that AI will likely create new opportunities, especially for those ready to adapt. She stressed that by 2030, Artificial Intelligence may rival human capacity, and counsellors must equip themselves with digital literacy and ethical frameworks to remain relevant.

Prof. Obi further made a clarion call to elevate counselling’s visibility and accessibility in Nigeria. Too often, counselling is perceived as a service for those with “serious” problems, creating stigma and limiting demand. Yet, as participants emphasized, everyone needs counselling—students facing career dilemmas, families navigating generational divides, communities grappling with trauma.

She called on governments at all levels to establish functional counselling centres in schools and enjoined educators to provide rich theoretical and practical training for future counsellors.

Prof. Obi enjoined chapters of the associations to lead community outreach programmes, especially targeting drug abuse among youths. By doing so, she noted, counselling will not only address crises but also promote holistic wellness—psychological, educational, vocational, and social.

Perhaps the most forward-looking discussion was the APROCON Bill, currently in progress. Once passed, the bill will provide a legal and regulatory framework for counselling in Nigeria. It will professionalize the field, establish standards, and allow counsellors to operate in private practice with authority and credibility.

To prepare for this new chapter, the association outlined its immediate steps; identifying skill gaps among practitioners, organizing zonal capacity-building workshop and Promoting global best practices using digital tools.

In her closing reflections, APROCON’s National President Prof. Osorochi Obi urged participants to carry forward the momentum, the friendships, and the renewed professional inspiration gained from the conference.

The 9th APROCON International Conference was more than an academic meeting—it was a statement of intent. By weaving together the timeless wisdom of communication, the realities of Nigeria’s conflict landscape, the opportunities of AI, and the vision of a regulated profession, the conference positioned counselling as an essential pillar of national development.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the turbulence of conflict and change, one truth stands clear: the future of peacebuilding lies not only in political negotiation or legal enforcement but in the quiet, powerful, and transformative act of counselling.