The United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has launched a four-day training program for traditional rulers in Katsina State, focusing on mediation and conflict resolution.
This initiative, part of the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria program, aims to equip traditional rulers with essential skills to resolve disputes and promote peaceful coexistence.
Governor Dikko Radda, represented by Secretary to the State Government Abdullahi Faskari, emphasized the critical role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace. “Peace is fundamental to socio-economic development, and without it, nothing can be achieved,” Faskari stated.
“Traditional rulers are the closest to the people, and their role in ensuring peaceful coexistence cannot be overstated.”
The training program, piloted in Katsina and Charanchi districts, will provide participants with a foundational understanding of Nigeria’s justice system. This will enhance their engagement with law enforcement agencies in conflict resolution and family dispute mediation.
Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo, Team Lead of the SPRiNG program, highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance in maintaining stability across Africa. “Nigeria plays a key role in peace and security on the continent. The world recognizes that if Nigeria is unstable, Africa will be affected,” Ukiwo said.
Prof. Muhammed Tabiu (SAN), Training Coordinator, Green Horizon, explained that the training aims to sharpen traditional rulers’ mediation skills. “Our traditional rulers have always played a crucial role in maintaining peace and security. Given the rising threats of banditry and terrorism in Katsina and the North-West, their role has become even more vital.”