NGO convenes regional security dialogue for Zamfara, Katsina stakeholders

A non-governmental organisation, Voluntary Aid Initiative (VAI), has convened the second regional Early Warning Early Response (EWER) stakeholders’ meeting for Zamfara and Katsina states, aimed at strengthening collaboration among community actors, security agencies and government authorities.

The meeting, held in Gusau, brought together key stakeholders under the Empowering Community Security (ECOS) project to enhance trust, coordination and capacity in addressing security challenges across the two states.

Declaring the meeting open at Karma Guest Inn, the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, represented by Rahila Gusau, described the gathering as timely, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to promoting justice, equity and peace in the state.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of VAI, to Musa Umar Aboki, said the engagement was coming at a critical time when communities continue to face complex security and social challenges.

He noted that the active participation of stakeholders underscored a shared commitment to building safer and more resilient communities in Zamfara, Katsina and the wider region.

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Aboki stressed that effective EWER mechanisms remain vital in preventing conflicts.

He added that sustainable peace could only be achieved through collective action among government institutions, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, as well as women and youth groups.

Aboki commended development partners, including KARUNA Centre for Peacebuilding and NEEM Foundation, for their support in making the meeting possible, while appreciating the governments and people of Zamfara and Katsina states for their commitment to peacebuilding initiatives.

In a remark, the Katsina State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, represented by the Director of Social Protection, Dr Tijjani Umar, lauded VAI’s efforts and reiterated the state government’s support for initiatives that promote peace and stability.

Highlights of the meeting included presentations by EWER and Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) members, who showcased achievements recorded under the ECOS project in various communities across the two states.