The Mediation Training Institute of Nigeria (MTI-Nigeria), has called for the structured integration of ex-servicemen into Nigeria’s community security framework.
President of the institute, Amb. Segun Ogunyannwo, made the call on Monday in Abuja, at the flag off of Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Skills Accreditation and Certificate Training for Military Veterans.
Ogunyannwo said the initiative was designed to reposition retired military personnel as key actors in non-kinetic security operations, especially at the grassroots level where most conflicts begin.
He explained that veterans by virtue of their training, discipline and widespread presence across communities, were uniquely positioned to serve as first-line responders.
”Veterans are everywhere in this country. Wherever they are, once there’s an issue, they can respond adequately.
”They can therefore serve as first-line responders and assist significantly in intelligence gathering and early response to emerging threats,” he said.
Ogunyannwo also said that the programme was being implemented in collaboration with veteran associations and supported by Defence Headquarters.
According to him, the initiative targets the training and certification of about 100 veterans in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
He disclosed that the programme sought to shift veterans from purely kinetic approaches to non-kinetic roles such as mediation, dialogue facilitation and community dispute resolution.
”They already have vast experience from their years of service. What we want to do is strengthen their capacity with mediation skills so they can resolve disputes peacefully and promote harmony,” he explained.
Ogunyannwo expressed optimism that integrating trained veterans into community-based security efforts would help reduce insecurity as well as improve early warning systems and ease pressure on conventional security agencies.
He also urged relevant authorities to identify and support willing veterans, stressing that their involvement would complement ongoing national security operations.
He added that the institute was working with stakeholders to ensure effective deployment of trained participants into Nigeria’s broader security architecture.
The call comes amid continued security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping and communal violence across parts of the country.
Security analysts have increasingly advocated community-driven approaches to security, with emphasis on intelligence-led prevention and local engagement to complement military and police operations.(NAN)
