A coalition of Non Governmental Organisations led by Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND), has deployed a social cohesion initiative towards building understanding between communities and security agencies in Bayelsa.
The event held at Kaima, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area (LGA) brought together youth, community members from Odi and Kaima, and government security operatives.
Speaking at the event, Aniekan Archibong, PIND’s EU Project Team Lead noted that the event aims to foster dialogue and collaboration, aimed at addressing the deep-rooted issues driving violence and criminality in the region.
Archibong explained that the program, part of the broader “Community-Centered Approach to Transforming Criminality and Violence in the Niger Delta” project.
He said the project marked a significant milestone in efforts to reduce tensions and improve community security.
He said that more than 400 participants from the eight LGAs in Bayelsa, adding that the initiative focused on building trust through interactive sessions, role plays, and discussions that encouraged open communication between these often-divided groups.
“We have witnessed a powerful transformation in the relationship between youth and security actors. This initiative has shown that through dialogue and collaboration, long-standing mistrust can be replaced by understanding and cooperation.
“Our interactions here will create a conducive atmosphere to foster and build understanding and broaden our perspectives towards peace.
“This initiative is a critical step toward achieving sustainable peace in the Niger Delta. We look forward to continuing this momentum and supporting communities as they take charge of their own security futures,” Archibong said.
Participants, including at-risk youth, community leaders, and members of various Nigerian security agencies, expressed optimism about the future of security in their communities.
The participants examined the frosty relationship between security agencies and communities, the challenges faced by the parties and made recommendations to resolve conflicts.
The participants engagimed in interactive activities designed to break down barriers and foster mutual respect, the initiative facilitated open conversations about the core drivers of violence and insecurity.
Many attendees noted a renewed sense of trust and a stronger commitment to work together for a safer Niger Delta.
Chief Truman Abiama, Secretary, Odi Chiefs Council noted that security in his domain is often compromised by political gladiators who mount pressure on security agencies to free suspected criminals.
He said that some prominent people in communities serve as patrons to secret cults and protect cultists when they run foul of the law.
The project funded by European Union (EU), implemented by consortium partners- Search for Common Ground, Stakeholders Democracy Network (SDN), Academic Associate Peaceworks (AAPW), and Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND).
The focus is on addressing issues like resource-based conflicts, ethnic hostilities, and the proliferation of armed groups.
The event encouraged inclusive participation and promoting collaboration between communities and security forces, the initiative helped strengthen early warning and response mechanisms to prevent future outbreaks of violence.
The participants resolved to strengthen relationships between youth, community members, and government security agencies across Bayelsa.
They expressed commitment to improved dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders, with greater trust and collaborative efforts to address community security challenges.
They pledged to work towards enhanced communication and engagement among diverse groups, leading to a more cohesive and secure environment.
The social cohesion building event was part of an 18-month action plan supported by PIND, SFCG, and other peacebuilding partners, aimed at promoting long-term stability in the Niger Delta region.
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PARTICIPANTS AT THE EVENT