By Ali Mohammed Zannah

The Borno State government, in collaboration with the Peace Ambassador Centre for Humanitarian Aid and Empowerment and with funding from the British Council, convened a town hall meetin 11amg to Strengthen Peace, Security Efforts.

The event took place on Thursday at the Women’s Development Centre, Maiduguri.

The event brought together government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, women and youth groups, academia, the media, victims of insurgency, and repentant insurgents.

The Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, whose ministry organised the event, represented by Mr. Babagana Mustapha, Director of Administration and Supply from the ministry, explained the purpose of the event, explaining that the meeting aimed to assess the achievements made in peacebuilding efforts, discuss emerging

“This meeting provides a crucial platform for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and contribute to the ongoing efforts to foster peace and security in Borno State,” said Mustapha.

Alkali L. Musa, representing the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, reiterated the administration’s dedication to fostering peace through inclusive dialogue.

General Nurulhayat Garba Mohammed, representing the GOC of the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army, reaffirmed the military’s efforts in ensuring security in the state.

Dr. Bunu Mustapha, program Manager of the Peace Ambassador Centre, provided an overview of the security landscape, while Ms. Hussaini Mohammed outlined the objectives of the meeting, emphasising the need for continuous stakeholder engagement in peace and security initiatives.

Ambassador Ahmed Shehu, President and Founder of the Peace Ambassador Centre, highlighted the importance of community-based solutions to complement military efforts.

“We need to foster community-based solutions to complement military efforts,” Ambassador Shehu said.

During plenary discussions, stakeholders acknowledged the successes of security agencies’ operations while emphasising the need for non-kinetic approaches such as reconciliation, peacebuilding, and community engagement.

Participants also underscored the importance of education, parental responsibility, and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, transitional justice, access to farmland, and socio-economic development.

At the close of the meeting, the secretariat was tasked with compiling a detailed communiqué and policy document for government consideration.

The gathering also called for the institutionalisation of similar dialogues to ensure the sustainability of peace initiatives in Borno State.