Stakeholders in Niger State have pledged to work together towards promoting peaceful cohesion in addressing the various security challenges and conflicts confronting the state.
The commitment was made during the inauguration and establishment of the State Peace Architecture (SPA) platform by Search for Common Ground in Minna.
They expressed concern over the prevailing security situation that include banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, farmers/herders clashes, among other challenges, which, according to them, calls for collective action.
The stakeholders, comprising security agencies, state government ministries, various ethno-religious and civil society organizations, as well as representatives of media houses in Niger State, also pledged their readiness to support the newly established State Peace Architecture (SPA) in steming the tides of insecurity .
The state chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, represented by the Secretary, Mr. Rapheal Opawoye, and the state chairman of Jama’Tul Nasul Islam ( JNI) Alh. Abubakar Yakubu Bosso, threw their weight behind the initiative.
“We are in total support anything that will help in eradicating banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, farmers/herdsmen clashes and other criminal activities in the state,” they said in a joint address.
They noted that without peace and cohesion among the people, especially followers of the major religions , it would be difficult to enjoy peace in the state and the nation as a whole and called for collaboration in ensuring that peace reigns.
The Head of Programme, Implementation Middle Belt, Godwin Okoko explained that the organization is prepared to support all relevant stakeholders in addressing the security challenges facing the state.
He stated that the 30 man SPA Committee is saddled with the responsibility of coming up with recommendations on how to improve peace in various communities.
According to him, “This project aims to tackle ongoing and emerging conflicts through regular meetings and collaborative discussions among key stakeholders in Niger State.”
Futhermore, the Programme Manager, Remikat Ayuba said the organization aside setting up the Niger State Peace Architecture office in Minna, an area office will be established in Borgu LGA of the state, which shares border with Benin Republic, as a result of security challenges in the area.
Stakeholders pledge to tackle insecurity, conflicts in Niger State
