Borno CSOs acquire skills to champion Boko Haram survivors’ rights

In a bid to bolster transitional justice in Borno State, the Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development has equipped Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) with advocacy skills to champion the rights of Boko Haram survivors.

At a training session in Maiduguri on Tuesday, Executive Director, Allamin Foundation, Hamsatu Allamin, noted that the programme focused on lobbying for economic reintegration programmes, safe houses, and holistic services for survivors.

According to Allamin,”the UK-aided training aimed to build capacities and foster reconciliation in Borno state, drawing robust participation from CSOs.

Allamin was represented by Mustapha Shattima who said “the training enabled participants to brainstorm and develop an advocacy work plan for the North-East Transitional Justice Network (NETJUN).”

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She highlighted survivors’ urgent needs, including economic empowerment, skills training, and employment opportunities.

“A staggering 75% of 360 women surveyed stressed the need for skills training and employment,” she revealed.

She explained that the workshop refreshed participants’ knowledge on transitional justice, facilitating discussions on advocacy strategies centered on protection, empowerment, and promotion of survivors.

“The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)-supported training prioritized lobbying for economic reintegration programmes, safe houses, and holistic services for survivors.”

The foundation urges government, NGOs, and stakeholders to support economic empowerment programmes, increase funding for safe spaces and shelters, and ensure holistic services for survivors.

“This initiative aims to amplify survivors’ voices, promote transitional justice in Nigeria’s North-East region, and create a safer environment for them to thrive.

“With this training, NETJUN members are expected to carry out advocacy across the state, engaging stakeholders to advocate for policies protecting survivors.

“Our effort is a call to action for sustainable peace and reconciliation in Borno State,” she added.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE