Africa Security Investigation News

Matawalle and Sokoto Governor Inspect Critical NAF 119 Composite Group Project in Sokoto

Emmanuel Daudu

In a move that underscores the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to national security, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, alongside the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, Ph.D., FCNA, conducted a joint inspection of the ongoing Nigerian Air Force (NAF) 119 Composite Group (CG) project in Sokoto State.

The site visit, aimed at assessing progress on the key NAF infrastructure, saw Dr. Matawalle laud the professionalism and dedication of the personnel involved.

He emphasized the pivotal role NAF plays in safeguarding Nigeria, especially in countering insurgency and other security threats in the North-West.

“The Nigerian Air Force continues to play a critical role in safeguarding our nation,” the Minister affirmed.

“The Federal Government is committed to ensuring that NAF has the necessary resources to enhance operational efficiency as we intensify the fight against insecurity.”

Governor Aliyu Sokoto echoed the Minister’s sentiments, praising the Federal and State Government’s collaboration in addressing the complex security challenges facing Sokoto State and the wider region. “Sokoto State stands firmly with the Armed Forces,” the Governor declared. “We will continue to support all efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability for our people.”

The Governor further commended Minister Matawalle for his determination and personal commitment to restoring security in the North-West.

“The Minister has shown exceptional resilience and bravery by penetrating areas previously considered no-go zones and facilitating the return of communities to regions once deserted,” Governor Sokoto noted.

The briefing on the project’s progress was delivered by the Unit Commander, with the GOC 8 Division, Brigadier General I.A. Ajose, and other senior military officials in attendance. The NAF 119 Composite Group project is viewed as a vital component in bolstering NAF’s operational capabilities in the North-West, a region historically plagued by banditry and insurgency.

This joint inspection highlights the ongoing efforts by both Federal and State Governments to strengthen military infrastructure in critical regions, with the NAF 119 CG project set to be a cornerstone in securing peace and stability in Sokoto and beyond.

Badaru Calls for Strategic Synergy in Nigeria’s Defence Sector, Focuses on Technology and Local Innovation

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has reaffirmed the government’s determination to enhance the country’s military capabilities through cutting-edge technology and innovation.

Speaking at the Defence Research and Development Bureau’s (DRDB) Annual Seminar and Exhibition in Abuja, the Minister called for greater synergy within Nigeria’s defence sector to foster a Military Industrial Complex capable of responding to evolving security threats.

At the event, themed “Enhancing Synergy in R&D Towards a Robust Military Industrial Complex in Nigeria,” Badaru emphasized that collaboration and local production are key to Nigeria’s defence strategy.

He noted that the Federal Government is committed to advancing Research and Development (R&D) in the defence sector, which is seen as vital in addressing global and regional security challenges.

“Our national security strategy acknowledges the vital role of innovation in fostering a secured and prosperous nation,” the Minister said. “To effectively respond to today’s dynamic threats, we must integrate a Military Industrial Complex that promotes self-reliance and local production of military equipment.”

Badaru highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and stressed the importance of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill of 2023 in advancing Nigeria’s defence production capabilities.

The seminar aimed to promote collaboration among key stakeholders in the defence sector, from government agencies to private industry partners. According to Badaru, such partnerships are essential for building a robust military capable of withstanding new threats. “It is through collaboration and cooperation that we can harness cutting-edge technologies and stay ahead of emerging threats,” he said.

Badaru underscored the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to policies that encourage private sector participation and capacity building in defence research, adding that the development of indigenous military technology is crucial to Nigeria’s self-reliance.

This renewed focus on innovation, collaboration, and local production comes at a time when Nigeria faces a complex security landscape, from insurgencies in the North East to growing regional instability in the Sahel.

As the country navigates these challenges, leveraging homegrown technology and fostering a self-sufficient military industrial base are expected to play a pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s future.

By continuing to support DRDB’s initiatives, Badaru said the Federal Government remains resolute in its efforts to develop indigenous military technology, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of defence innovation. “Together, we will build a self-reliant nation with a strong defence posture,” he concluded.

This strategic push aligns with the broader goals of the Ministry of Defence, which is actively working to boost Nigeria’s security infrastructure while reducing dependence on foreign military imports. With a combination of local expertise and global best practices, Nigeria’s military is positioning itself to take on emerging security challenges with a renewed sense of purpose.

Court Confirms Comrade Julius Bobi as Legitimate National President of Motorcycle Operators Union

Emmanuel Daudu

The leadership tussle within the Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN) has finally been resolved as an Abuja court has confirmed Comrade Julius Oghenevwegba Bobi as the rightful National President of the union.

In a judgment that puts to rest months of internal conflict, the court ruled that Bobi remains the legally recognized leader of the union.

The decision was communicated in an official letter from Parlance Law Firm, representing Comrade Bobi, to several government entities, including the Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Justice, the Ministry of Labour, and the Nigerian Labour Congress.

The letter, titled “Re: Suit of Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN) and 9 ORS v. Sotayo Rasak Olusola, Suit No: CV/85/2024 Post Judgment Notification,” highlighted the court’s directive for the parties to maintain the current leadership structure, reaffirming Bobi’s position.

“By this Court Order, Comrade Julius Oghenevwegba Bobi remains the National President of the Union, and no other individual has the right to claim this position. This notice serves as a reminder to guide all future correspondence regarding the union and prevent any actions that could result in Contempt of Court,” the letter stated.

The ruling underscores the court’s authority in the matter and is accompanied by a certified true copy (CTC) of the court’s order, which was distributed to relevant stakeholders to avoid confusion or non-compliance.

This decision brings closure to the leadership crisis that had threatened the unity of the union, ensuring that Bobi’s leadership is uncontested and that all further engagements with the union will be conducted under his authority.

All members and government agencies are expected to adhere strictly to the court’s judgment, which reinforces respect for the rule of law.

In a judgment that puts to rest months of internal conflict, the court ruled that Bobi remains the legally recognized leader of the union.

All members and government agencies are expected to adhere strictly to the court’s judgment, which reinforces respect for the rule of law.

Igbo Community Celebrates New Yam Festival with Grandeur

Maryam Aminu

The Ndi Igbo community of Cajaah Estate, Orozo, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, came alive over the weekend as they marked the 2024 edition of the New Yam Festival in a vibrant celebration of Igbo culture and heritage.

This year’s event, themed “Our Culture, Our Heritage,” brought together Igbos from within and beyond the estate, all adorned in colorful traditional Igbo attire, adding to the festivity’s lively atmosphere.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Igbo community at Cajaah Estate, Chief Cosmas Ekpunobi, emphasized the importance of the New Yam Festival to the Igbo people, no matter where they reside.

He explained, “The New Yam Festival is a significant tradition for the Igbos, whether at home or abroad. It serves as an opportunity to unite, share experiences, and support one another. This is the second time we are holding this festival here, and each time, we strive to make it better.”

Chief Ekpunobi also clarified that the Igbo gathering, known as Nzuko Ndigbo, is not a separate association but a complement to the existing estate leadership.

He pointed to similar festivals held by Igbos worldwide, like the one in Germany, which similarly fostered community unity.

Chairman of the 2024 New Yam Festival Organizing Committee, Chief Nonso Onwuanibe, provided further insight into the significance of the event, explaining that the Iwaji or Iriji festival is a longstanding Igbo tradition that symbolizes blessings, goodwill, and unity.

“As a strong community in this estate, we felt it was important to showcase our culture and heritage, not just to Igbos but to other ethnic groups as well,” he noted.

The special guest of honor, Estate Chairman Engr. Kenneth Egbedion, lauded the Igbo community for their efforts in promoting unity and togetherness in the estate.

“You have set an example for others to follow by fostering harmony and community relations. We are confident that future editions of this event will only grow bigger and better,” he remarked.

The event’s highlight was the ceremonial cutting of the roasted yam, led by Chief Ekpunobi and other dignitaries, followed by an Igbo recitation performed by young boys, Master David Amarachukwu Emenike and Master Emmanuel Chinenyenwa Emenike, to the delight of the audience.

Traditional Igbo music, courtesy of the Ogene dance troupe, added a dynamic touch to the occasion, keeping guests entertained throughout the day.

Attendees were also treated to a variety of Igbo delicacies, proving that, despite the current economic challenges, the spirit of hospitality and celebration remained intact.

Nigeria’s $10 Billion SDG Financing Shortfall Demands Urgent Tax Reforms- CISLAC, OXFAM

Adejoh Bilkisu

As Nigeria gapples with profound sociaeconomic challenges, the need for comprehensive tax reforms has become increasingly urgent as major fiscal crisis faces a staggering annual financing gap of over $10 billion needed to meet its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With more than half of the population living in poverty, the nation’s current tax structure is failing to address rampant inequality. Tax evasion and avoidance, especially among the wealthiest Nigerians, are intensifying the country’s economic challenges, and civil society groups are calling for immediate reforms.

At the unveiling of Oxfam Nigeria’s report, Income and Wealth Inequality in Nigeria: Trends and Drivers, held in Abuja on Tuesday, Oxfam Nigeria and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) emphasized the need for comprehensive tax reforms to address growing inequality.

The report reveals alarming statistics: Nigeria’s super-rich, comprising over 115,000 High Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs), have a tax compliance rate of just 0.035%, with only 40 out of this group paying their taxes.

“This is a crisis in waiting,” said Auwal Ibrahim Musa, Executive Director of CISLAC.

“If we can enforce tax compliance among just a fraction of these individuals, the government could unlock over N4.59 trillion in revenue annually, which could significantly bolster the national health budget or reduce healthcare costs for millions of Nigerians.”

The report shines a light on six key areas of concern within Nigeria’s tax system:
Low Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Regressive Taxation, Inefficient Property Taxation

Others include Wealth Inequality, Challenges in Tax Decentralization, Underperformance of the VAIDS Program

The report also provides a roadmap to fixing Nigeria’s tax system and closing the SDG financing gap. Key recommendations include:
Establishing a High Net-Worth Individuals (HNWI) Unit,
Introducing a Wealth Tax ,
Reforming Capital Gains Tax, Exempting Basic Goods from VAT, other recommendations include
Property Tax Overhaul, Progressive Personal Income Tax, Inheritance and Gift Taxes,
Renegotiating Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs)

The urgency of these reforms cannot be overstated. Nigeria’s tax system, in its current form, is unsustainable and threatens to deepen economic disparities if left unreformed. Implementing these tax reforms would compel the wealthiest to contribute their fair share, easing the burden on Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations and aligning with the nation’s developmental goals.

The decisions made in the coming months will shape the fiscal and socioeconomic landscape of Nigeria for years to come. If the government can muster the political will to enforce these measures, it could turn the tide on poverty and inequality, ensuring a more equitable future for all Nigerians.

Hon. J.J Umaru to Host 2024 Peace and Unity Summit, Honored by GAPU for Championing National Harmony

Maryam Aminu

In a landmark move to address Nigeria’s pressing need for peace and stability, the Global Alliance for Peace and Unity (GAPU) has announced that Member House of Representative Akwanga/ Wamba /Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency and
Vice Chairman House Committee on Public Account, Hon. J.J Umaru, (Sabon Salo) will host the 2024 Peace and Unity Summit.

The announcement comes after GAPU’s president, Solomon Pevkyaa, led a delegation to meet Umaru, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to promoting peace and youth empowerment in the country.

During the meeting, Pevkyaa commended Umaru’s leadership, describing him as a “unifying force” in both his constituency and across the nation.

Pevkyaa, renowned for his advocacy for national cohesion, expressed deep concern about the growing trend of protests turning violent, leading to the destruction of public and private property.

He urged Nigerian youth to seek non-violent ways of airing their grievances, emphasizing, “Peace and unity are more valuable than anything that can be won through chaos.”

Pevkyaa went on to highlight the importance of collaboration between government leaders and civil society to curb unrest.

He lauded Umaru’s transparent and inclusive approach to governance, encouraging other leaders to emulate his example.

“Sabon Salo has proven himself to be a beacon of hope, especially for Nigerian youth. His leadership is one that many should aspire to,” he remarked.

As part of the visit, GAPU honored Umaru with a certificate of commendation, officially recognizing him as a “Peace and Unity Advocate” and presenting him as an icon of peace and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

The award reflects Umaru’s consistent efforts to bridge divides within communities and his commitment to nurturing the potential of the country’s younger generation.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Umaru expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his belief in the irreplaceable value of peace.

“There is no substitute for peace and unity. Every decision I make is grounded in ensuring a peaceful outcome,” he declared.

Reflecting on the causes of unrest, Umaru observed, “Where there is chaos, protests, or riots, it’s often because people feel there is a lack of fairness and transparency.”

The lawmaker emphasized that his dedication to fairness and transparency has resonated with his supporters, leading even some members of the opposition to switch allegiance to his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Sabon Salo also reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment and education, citing ongoing projects such as building a skill acquisition centre for the youth, the construction of a senior citizen center in Akwanga to support the elderly, as part of his broader vision for community development.

Looking ahead, the 2024 Peace and Unity Summit is expected to draw both national and international peace advocates to discuss actionable steps for fostering dialogue and sustainable peace in Nigeria.

Umaru’s selection to host the summit underscores his growing influence as a leading figure in peacebuilding efforts across the country.

As preparations for the summit gain momentum, the partnership between GAPU and Hon. J.J Umaru offers a hopeful prospect in Nigeria’s journey towards national unity and progress.

The upcoming 2024 Peace and Unity Summit, organized by the Global Alliance for Peace and Unity (GAPU) and hosted by Hon. JJ Umaru, is set to be a pivotal event in Nigeria’s peacebuilding efforts. Bringing together national and international advocates for dialogue, the summit aims to address the root causes of unrest and foster a collaborative approach to peace and unity.

Sabon Salo’s involvement in the summit further cements his reputation as a champion of harmony, transparency, and youth empowerment. His leadership, which has drawn praise not only from his constituency but from leaders across the political spectrum, reflects his commitment to ensuring that peace remains the foundation of Nigeria’s future.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges, the 2024 Peace and Unity Summit promises to be a landmark moment, where key stakeholders will discuss practical solutions to promote sustainable development and peaceful coexistence.

The collaboration between Hon. J.J Umaru and GAPU is a beacon of hope, signaling a renewed focus on peace as the cornerstone of national progress.

The Global President Solomon Pevkyaa with the Honorable House of Reps Member, Hon. J.J Umaru

Honourable J. J Umaru (Sabon Salo) with the Director Media Global Alliance for Peace and Unity, Maryam Aminu

UN Women and CLEEN Foundation’s Visit to Benue Peace Commission Marks International Day of the Girl Child

Adejoh Bilkisu

In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, the Benue State Peace and Reconciliation Commission welcomed a courtesy visit from the UN Women delegation and the CLEEN Foundation.

This strategic engagement aimed to amplify the role of women in peacebuilding and foster collaboration between key stakeholders to address ongoing security challenges within the state.

The courtesy visit, held in Makurdi, featured participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Women Mediators Network, and the HeForShe Network.

Notable among the seven participants were Dr. Gabriel Akinremi of CLEEN Foundation and Mrs. Magdalene Awuapila, a representative of the National Women Mediators Network.

The event, which underscored the critical role of women in conflict mediation and reconciliation efforts, drew significant attention as stakeholders explored potential avenues for collaboration in promoting peace in Benue State.

Addressing the attendees, Dr. Gabriel Akinremi emphasized the transformative role of women in peacebuilding, particularly in Benue’s rural communities.

He lauded the efforts of the Peace Commission, under the leadership of Mrs. Josephine Habba, for its continued dedication to fostering peace across the state’s local government areas (LGAs).

Akinremi noted that empowering women through education, economic opportunities, and political representation equips them to become active agents of sustainable peace.

Mrs. Magdalene U.I. Igbazua reinforced this sentiment, advocating for a more inclusive approach to peace and security that addresses the root causes of violence and inequality.

“Empowering women means addressing issues like gender-based violence, human trafficking, and exploitation,” Igbazua said.

“Only then can they truly contribute to and benefit from peace. This is not just women issue it’s a global issue that affects us all.”

Representing the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Magdalene Andor applauded the Peace Commission for its role in leading peace initiatives across the state.

She affirmed the ministry’s commitment to working closely with the Commission to ensure women are not just participants but leaders in peace processes.

“Women in Benue must be allowed to participate in state processes. We are ready to collaborate with you at any time,” Andor said, pledging the ministry’s ongoing support for the Commission’s activities.

Mrs. Josephine Habba, the Director-General of the Peace Commission, expressed her gratitude for the visit and reiterated her commitment to building women’s capacity to contribute to peacebuilding efforts.

“Women are the bedrock of our communities, and their voices must be at the table for any sustainable peace to be achieved,” Habba said.

She also underscored the importance of continuous learning and collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing that peace can only be sustained through collective effort.

The participants collectively acknowledged the strides made by the Peace Commission in addressing conflict in Benue.

They also emphasized the need for continued efforts to address violence against women and girls, which remains a significant barrier to peace in many parts of the state.

The visit not only strengthened relationships between the Peace Commission and its partners but also set the stage for future collaboration in addressing peace-related challenges.

Stakeholders from the Ministry of Women Affairs and other organizations pledged their support to ensure the voices of women mediators are amplified in future peace processes.

The Peace Commission, in collaboration with UN Women and CLEEN Foundation, has pledged to continue its efforts to empower women as peacebuilders across Benue State.

Plans are underway to implement training sessions for women mediators, equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to contribute effectively to conflict resolution processes.

This courtesy visit marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote peace and security in Benue State, particularly as the world continues to recognize the crucial role of women in shaping more peaceful and inclusive societies.

Despite the success of the visit, logistical challenges, such as the need for improved transportation access to remote communities and schools, were highlighted.

Participants recommended that future projects prioritize these areas to ensure broader outreach and engagement with grassroots communities.

As Benue State continues to navigate its security challenges, the involvement of women in mediation and reconciliation processes remains key to achieving lasting peace.

Through the collective efforts of stakeholders and the ongoing support of UN Women, the future of peace and gender equality in the state looks promising.

Defence Minister Calls for Eradication of Crude Oil Theft to Boost Nigeria’s Oil Production

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has charged troops of the Headquarters Joint Task Force South South Operation Delta Safe to intensify efforts in completely eradicating crude oil theft and related criminal activities.

His directive comes as Nigeria’s crude oil production shows promising signs of improvement, rising from 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) to approximately 1.7 million bpd.

During his maiden visit to the Task Force’s Headquarters in Bayelsa State, the Defence Minister commended the troops for their successful demobilization of over 1,100 illegal refineries since February 2024.

“I am confident that by December 2024, our crude oil production will reach 2 million barrels per day, and by mid-2025, we can achieve 2.5 million bpd,” Abubakar stated optimistically.

The Minister emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding national infrastructure, particularly the pipelines that transport crude oil.

He lauded the troops’ ongoing commitment to combating economic sabotage and criminal activities like illegal refining, which have plagued the oil-producing regions for years.

Rear Admiral J.U. Okeke, Commandant of Operation Delta Safe, revealed that the operation has led to an 85% reduction in crude oil theft and illegal refinery activities in the second and third quarters of 2024.

This crackdown has directly contributed to the recent surge in crude oil production, with figures jumping from 1.5 million bpd in June to 1.7 million bpd by September.

In his address to the troops, the Minister conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation for their bravery and commitment, despite operating under challenging conditions.

He urged them to press on until the country achieves its full production potential, declaring, “The President is proud of your efforts, and we will not rest until we get the results we deserve.”

This call to action reflects Nigeria’s renewed resolve to curtail economic sabotage in the oil sector and leverage the nation’s resources to strengthen its economic standing on the global stage.

UN Women and Stakeholders Lead Peace Walk in Benue State to Commemorate International Day of Peace

Bilkisu Adejoh

In a significant demonstration of solidarity and commitment to peace, over 70 participants, including men, women, and representatives from various sectors, took part in a Peace Walk organized by the UN Women, CLEEN Foundation, and key stakeholders in Benue State.

The event marked the commemoration of the International Day of Peace 2024, a day set aside globally to foster unity and harmony among communities.

The rally, which commenced at the Savannah roundabout and concluded at the Pauline Makka Women Development Centre, was a powerful representation of the collective resolve to promote peace and security in the region.

Participants in the Peace Walk included members of the HeForShe Network, traditional chiefs, civil society organizations (CSOs), media representatives, and gender experts, along with women advocates, the physically disabled, and other peacebuilding practitioners.

In a keynote address during the flag-off ceremony, Dr. Victoria Daaor, Assistant Coordinator of the WPS Women Mediators Benue, emphasized the critical role of women in peace processes.

She noted that women are not only victims of conflict but also pivotal players in rebuilding societies.

“Today, we are walking to show that peace is achievable when women are empowered and included in decision-making,” she said.

Dr. Daaor also underscored the need for women’s voices to be amplified in mediation efforts, as their participation ensures a more inclusive and sustainable peace.

Supporting this sentiment, Mr. Thomas Yange, Coordinator of the Women Mediators’ Media Network, highlighted the essential role the media plays in advancing peace initiatives.

“We will continue to use our platforms to educate and advocate for peace in Benue, ensuring that communities understand the importance of coexistence for societal development,” he remarked.

The rally saw participants holding placards and distributing peace stickers, all advocating for a peaceful and secure Benue State.

Traditional leader Chief Ihwakar Justine Terseer reiterated the commitment of traditional institutions to cultivating a culture of peace. “Peace is a collective responsibility, and as leaders, we must continue to encourage dialogue and unity in our communities,” he said.

Mr. Nathaniel Awuapila, Coordinator of the HeForShe Network, also spoke passionately about the need to support women and children during conflicts, recalling how past violence had displaced many in the region.

“We are here today to advocate for peace because when conflicts arise, it is women and children who suffer the most,” he noted.

He called on all sectors of society to adopt collaboration and dialogue as tools for fostering peace.

As part of the day’s activities, the women mediators, HeForShe Network, and other stakeholders took a bold step towards institutionalizing peace initiatives by inaugurating Peace Clubs in two secondary schools in Makurdi: the Makurdi International Secondary School and the Government Model Secondary School.

The initiative seeks to engage students as peace ambassadors, ensuring that the younger generation plays an active role in promoting peace and harmony in their communities.

The Women’s Mediators Network announced plans to intensify their advocacy efforts, focusing on creating a peace-enabling environment across Benue State.

They also called for increased representation of women in peace negotiations, citing their unique perspectives as essential to resolving conflicts.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Mrs. Magdalene Andor, Director of Women’s Affairs, stated, “As we commemorate International Peace Day, we must recognize that peace is not just the absence of war but the presence of justice and equality. Empowering women is central to achieving lasting peace.”

Participants at the Peace Walk agreed that achieving peace is a continuous process that requires sustained collaboration and advocacy.

They recommended further community engagement, emphasizing that peace efforts must include all sectors of society, including the physically disabled and other vulnerable groups.

Moving forward, the CLEEN Foundation and its partners plan to expand the reach of their peacebuilding initiatives, ensuring that peace messaging is inclusive and impactful.

As Benue State continues its journey toward lasting peace, the Peace Walk stands as a testament to the power of unity, collaboration, and the critical role of women in building a more secure and harmonious society.

The Peace Walk concluded with a renewed pledge from participants to continue advocating for peaceful coexistence.

Amnesty International Urges Swift Government Action to Support Female Survivors of Insurgency

Maryam Aminu

Amnesty International has issued a fresh appeal for the Nigerian government to accelerate efforts to reintegrate and empower girls and young women who have survived insurgency, including the Chibok girls, many of whom are now mothers grappling with the heavy burden of trauma and societal rejection.

Speaking at an event today in Abuja to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Programme Manager, Ms Barbara Magaji, made an impassioned plea for immediate action.

She urged the government to take responsibility for the well-being of these survivors, emphasizing that their reintegration into society is critical to their recovery and to the nation’s broader peace-building efforts.

“Today, we stand in solidarity with girls everywhere, particularly those who have suffered the ravages of conflict. In Nigeria, many of these girls have endured abductions, violence, and grave violations of their rights. Some have returned home, only to face stigma and alienation. We must remember their humanity and support them in rebuilding their lives,” Magaji said.

Amnesty International emphasized that the reintegration of these survivors is not just a moral duty but a crucial component of building lasting peace and security in Nigeria.

The organization’s call to action was clear: the government must act swiftly to provide the necessary support systems that can help these young women and their children reintegrate into society with dignity, free from the stigma that currently shadows their lives.

As the global community observes the International Day of the Girl Child, the plight of Nigeria’s conflict-affected girls remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change.

The Chibok girls and others who have survived the horrors of terrorism should not only be remembered as victims but as individuals deserving of every opportunity to thrive and reclaim their futures.

Also speaking, Helen Adah, a member of Amnesty International Nigeria, said
Today, the world is celebrating International Day of the Girl Child, raising awareness about the unique challenges that girls face worldwide and promoting their empowerment.

Adah expressed that every girl has the right to dream, the power to achieve, and the courage to change the world

“This day celebrates the potential of girls and advocates their rights, emphasising the importance of ensuring full participation in social, economic and political spheres.
This day also serves as a platform seeking to remove barriers to their progress, creating a more equitable and supportive environment for girls to thrive and contribute to society.” She said

The gathering ended with a symbolic show of solidarity, where attendees pledged to continue advocating for the rights and welfare of girls and women affected by conflict, urging the government to fast-track initiatives aimed at rescuing and rehabilitating those still held captive.