NGO engages journalists on strategic communications in North-West

By Muhammad Nasir

Sokoto Sept. 4, 2023

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), International Alert has engaged Journalists on strategic communications toward restoring peace and stability in the North-West region of Nigeria.

The two-day Media and Strategic Communications (STRATCOMS) workshop, in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to Sokoto State Government (SSG) commenced on Monday with participants from Sokoto, Zamfara and Kaduna States.

Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony in Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sifawa, the SSG, acknowledged the adoption of both kinetic and non kinetic approaches to resolve conflicts consuming lives and property in the region.

“The politicians, security agencies and the public should continue to maintain the narrative of approaching conflicts through reconciliation rather than radical approaches.

“This system will enable sustainability in peace and stability in our region in particular and the country in general,” he said.

Sifawa also lamented the negative impact of banditry on farming communities across the North- West especially in Sokoto State.

“Though the military action towards restoring peace is yielding result, but there is the need to consider both kinetic and non kinetic approaches to peace building effort in Nigeria.,” he added.

The SSG further said that the administration of Gov. Ahmad Aliyu was committed to ending the raging insecurity bedeviling some parts of the state.

“This is physically seen in its contribution in terms of logistics and mobility support to security agencies in the state,” the governor said.

Sifawa said that the governor was also committed to ending poverty and other challenges that were contributing to the security situation in the country.

On his part, Mr. Paul Nyulaku-Bemshima, Country Director, International Alert, stated that the decision to perpetrate violence or defect from it begins in the mind.

“This largely depends on what narratives a person is exposed to, and how vulnerable or receptive they are to it

“However, the key question is: Where is the real battlefield? Are we focused on winning the battle or winning the war?

“Why do youths choose to join? How best can those who have been associated be brought back to civilian life and how can communities be made to work together in promoting peace.

“Therefore, while military forces deal with the physical threats, efforts must be made to reinforce narratives that promote defection, rehabilitation and social cohesion,” he said.

The country director said that the event was aimed at increasing public awareness on the role of the media in promoting positive messaging and reducing harmful cultural norms.

“This workshop will provide the opportunity for key actors to generate alternative narratives, key messages, identify targets, and appropriate channels for achieving behavioural change outcomes.

“The efforts entail promoting policies and actions that aim to prevent populations from committing or supporting violence that is justified using Ideology,” he added.

Nyulaku-Bemshima said the workshop would also address the root causes, prevent recruitment and radicalisation and narratives that fuel violence and instability.