Pulse.ng : NGO advocates for women's inclusion in North-west security, peace-building

By Zubairu Idris

Global Rights, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has organised a town hall meeting to enhance women’s participation and inclusion in the security architecture and peacebuilding efforts in the North-west.

The event, held on Wednesday in Katsina with the theme “Building Collaborative Pathways for Women’s Inclusion in Peace and Security,” was attended by security agencies, women’s groups, CSOs, and community leaders, among others.

The meeting, organised in collaboration with the Kukah Centre, WRAPA, the Community Dialogue Committee (CDC), and Isa Wali Empowerment Initiative, was supported by UKaid.

Ms. Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights, represented by Project Manager Mr Edosa Oviawe, emphasised that “a peaceful society is one where every voice is heard, every barrier is broken, and no one is left behind.”

The executive director stressed that sustainable peacebuilding efforts must embrace the strength, wisdom, and resilience of everyone, including women, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

She said: “In the North-west, where communities have long faced conflict and instability, the role of women in shaping solutions cannot be overlooked.

“Women are not just victims of insecurity; they are resilient leaders, mediators, and agents of peace.

“Yet, their voices remain underrepresented in decision-making spaces where policies that shape their lives are designed.”

WRAPA State Coordinator, Hajiya Adama Bakori, acknowledged the contributions of women peacebuilders, activists, and leaders, noting that their efforts would enrich discussions and foster collaboration to promote women’s inclusion in peace and security.

Alhaji Sa’idu Ibrahim-Danja, Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Dikko Radda on Banditry and IDPs, affirmed the government’s commitment to addressing security challenges in the state.

He highlighted the positive results already seen, including successful farming activities during the last rainy season.

Ibrahim-Danja also lauded the cooperation among security agencies operating in the state.

CSP Gambo Isa, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Police Headquarters, Zone 14, emphasised the importance of women in security and peacebuilding, particularly as mothers and caregivers.

He urged women to continue efforts to prevent their husbands and children from engaging in criminal activities.