A group, IQRAA Foundation based in Zamfara on Sunday inaugurated a project tagged: “Path to Peace” to promote sustainable peace and conflict resolution in various communities in the state.
Speaking at the inauguration of the project in Gusau, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Umar Mahmud, said it was floated in collaboration with LEAP Africa and the Nigerian Youth Future Fund.
“We believe that peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, equality and opportunity for all.
“We noticed that Zamfara, like other parts of the country, is also experiencing various conflicts and other security challenges.
“However, we believe that applying the right strategies through direct engagement with most affected victims in
our communities can overcome the challenges,” he explained.
Mahmud said that the theme of the project “Path to Peace” was geared toward creating an environment where every individual can contribute to the peace process.
“The project aimed to empower communities affected by conflicts due to insecurity through the capacity-building of strategies for resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner.
“We plan to equip community leaders, youth organizations, women’s groups, elders, and farmers’ associations with the skills and knowledge in conflict resolution.
“We will facilitate dialogue forums that bring together host communities, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and returnees, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.”, he added.
Mahmud disclosed that one of the major activities to be implemented under the project was encouraging local peace building initiatives.
“I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated team, our partners, and the community leaders who have pledged their support for the successes of this project.
Mahmud appealed to stakeholders, community members and partners to be dedicated always towards promoting peace, education and community development.
“We should act as ambassadors of peace, advocates of dialogue, and champions of a brighter future in society,” he added. (NAN)
