The two-day Peace and Security summit being organised by the Northwest Governors’ Forum Nigeria in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) kicks off on Monday.
Being hosted in Katsina, capital of Katsina State from June 24 – 25, 2023, the landmark event, first of its kind in the region, will bring together Governors of the Northwest region and other key partners in a move to address the pressing security challenges facing the area.
Northwest Nigeria faces mounting security challenges including the ravaging increase in incidents of banditry, terrorism, and communal conflicts.
These issues have had devastating consequences for the local population, resulting in significant loss of life, severe disruption to livelihoods and widespread destruction of property.
This underscores the urgent need for coordinated action and solutions to restore peace and stability to the region – Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto and Zamfara States.
Under the theme “Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods,” the summit aims to explore solutions to ongoing insecurity, focusing on promoting peace and stability while strengthening cooperation among state governments to tackle these complex issues.
According to the host Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, “this gathering marks a turning point in our fight against insecurity. The challenges we face demand immediate and collective action. By uniting our efforts and resources, we can forge a path towards lasting peace and prosperity for our people. The time to act is now, and together, we will reclaim the safety and stability that our region deserves.”
UNDP’s journey to address insecurity in the Northwest region began in January 2024 with a peace and security workshop organized in collaboration with the Katsina State Government.
This effort led to the decision to convene this high-level Peace and Security summit for the Northwest State Governments.
“This summit represents a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to build peace in Northwest Nigeria. UNDP’s partnership with regional governments has been instrumental in fostering dialogue and developing sustainable solutions. Our work in peacebuilding across the Northwest has shown that lasting change is possible when we work together. This summit will further strengthen our collective resolve to create a safer environment for the people of this region,” said Ms. Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria.
By bringing together key stakeholders, this summit is expected to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue and action, leading to concrete strategies for enhancing peace and security in Northwest Nigeria.
According to a joint statement by Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, Commissioner Information and culture, Katsina State and Christabel Chanda-Ginsberg, Public Engagement, Outreach and Partnerships Lead, UNDP Nigeria, “discussions will explore sustainable approaches to advancing food security and fostering sustainable livelihoods, while examining how different regional actors can support and enhance regional cooperation and integrated solutions for the region’s future development.
“A key outcome of the Summit will be an agreement by all participating parties – including the seven Northwest state government, federal government, and the UN – to support the development of the Northwest Peace and Security Development Framework.
“This framework will serve as a guiding document for the region, outlining strategies, policies, and actions needed to enhance regional cooperation and interoperability.”
