The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the government of Japan, have trained 96 security personnel from seven West African countries on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.
The Team Lead, Governance, Peace & Security, UNDP-Nigeria, Mr. Matthew Alao, gave the figure at the inauguration of the Leadership and National Cohesion Course 2/2024 Martin Luther Agwai Leadership and Peace Keeping Center at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), Abuja.
Alao, represented by the Project Analyst Governance, Peace and Security Unit, Oluwatosin Richard, said the three activities planned under the ‘Enhancing MLAILPKC’s Capacities for Effective Peace Support Operations in West Africa Project’ funded and facilitated by the Government of Japan and UNDP was launched in May this year, and has accomplished its main goal and fully executed its three prescribed activities in 10 months.
He said the project goal was to advance democracy and national cohesion, peaceful co-existence and preserve the well-being of civilians in armed conflicts.
“Through the execution of this project, 96 persons (29 female) drawn from seven West Africa countries had gained expertise and skills on protection of civilians in armed conflicts; horned their competence on counter-violent extremism; and advanced their leadership and national cohesion acumen.
“Fifteen (15) institutions from ECOWAS countries equally benefitted immensely from this project through capabilities enhancement,” he stated.
He stressed that the leadership and national cohesion course was in response to bridge leadership gaps and improve the spirit of patriotism, commitment to humanity, which are critical elements for building social cohesion and sustainable global peace.
“It is, therefore, not just a course but a strategic platform for transformative leadership and cross-sectoral collaboration that enhances sustainable development and attainment of Agenda 2030.”
“Let us reaffirm our collective commitment to building a more unified, resilient, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria where all the inhabitants will adore and cherish the peaceful co-existence and social cohesion that will reign supreme,” he added.
In his remarks, Defence Attaché to Nigeria at the Embassy of Japan, Lieutenant Colonel Morita Tatsuya, commended the Center for providing comprehensive insights into leadership challenges and strategies for building a more unified and resilient national framework.
He reiterated that Japan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting essential training for Africa-led peace support operations and capacity building in Africa.
“We recognise the significant role of African-led Peace Support Operations in maintaining peace and stability across the continent. In Nigeria, we have been actively supporting the Peacekeeping Operation (PKO) training in partnership with the UNDP and various PKO training centres for the past six years, including this esteemed institution,” Lt.-Col. Tatsuya stated.