UK trains Katsina traditional rulers in conflict resolution
The United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, through its Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria programme, has commenced a four-day training for traditional rulers in Katsina State on mediation and conflict resolution.
Declaring the training open on Monday in Katsina, Governor Dikko Radda, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari, emphasised the critical role of traditional rulers in fostering peace.
“Peace is fundamental to socio-economic development, and without it, nothing can be achieved.
“Traditional rulers are the closest to the people, and their role in ensuring peaceful coexistence cannot be overstated.
“While mediation has always been part of their responsibilities, adopting modern strategies to improve their efforts is a welcome development,” Faskari stated.
He added that ensuring peace in Nigeria is a collective duty, stressing that any initiative aimed at strengthening peace deserves commendation.
The Team Lead of the SPRiNG programme, Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo, highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance in maintaining stability across Africa, stating that the UK government is keen on supporting local efforts to address security challenges.
“Nigeria plays a key role in peace and security on the continent. The world recognises that if Nigeria is unstable, Africa will be affected. That is why the UK is working closely with Nigerian stakeholders to strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms, particularly in addressing issues related to access to natural resources,” Ukiwo said.
In his remarks, the Training Coordinator, Green Horizon, Prof. Muhammed Tabiu (SAN), explained that the training aims to equip traditional rulers with essential mediation skills and a better understanding of Nigeria’s justice system.
“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. This training is designed to sharpen their mediation skills and strengthen their capacity to resolve disputes effectively,” Tabiu said.
The initiative, which is being piloted in Katsina and Charanchi districts, will also provide participants with a foundational understanding of the justice system to enhance their engagement with law enforcement agencies in conflict resolution and family dispute mediation.
