The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the government of Japan, has trained 96 security personnel from seven West African countries on protecting civilians in armed conflicts in 10 months.
The team lead, Governance, Peace & Security United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Nigeria, Mr Matthew Alao, gave the figures 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.
Mr Alao, represented by the Project Analyst for the 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, were launched in May this year. The project has accomplished its main goal and fully executed its three prescribed activities.
He said the project goal was to advance democracy and national cohesion, promote peaceful coexistence, and preserve the well-being of civilians in armed conflicts.
“Through the execution of this project, 96 persons (29 female) drawn from seven West African countries had gained expertise and skills on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts; honed 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 added.
He stressed that the leadership and national cohesion course was a response to bridging leadership gaps and improving the spirit of patriotism and 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,” he said.
“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, Lieutenant Colonel Morita Tatsuya, Defence Attaché to the Nigerian Embassy of Japan, commended the centre 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 African-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.”
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