A group picture of some CATJ members at the training in Maiduguri
A community based NGO, Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development in Borno, has trained 40 Community Advocates for Transitional Justice (CATJ) in the state on Survivours-Centered Approaches towards reconciliation and reintegration for lasting peace.
The training was conducted in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), with the advocates drawn from Maiduguri, Jere, Konduga and Mafa Local Government Areas.
Speaking at the end of the training on Wednesday in Maiduguri, the facilitator, Dr Lawan Balami, said the essence of the training was to broaden the participants’ knowledge on survivours-centred approach for reconciliation and reintegration.
He said the training would enhance the advocates’ zeal and commitment for the ‘phase 11 of the peace building’ aimed at strengthening their capacities and will for Transitional Justice and reconciliation in Borno.
Balami lauded the effective role being played by the voluntary advocates which comprised traditional and religious leaders, in facilitating reconciliation and reintegration of repentant insurgents.
“Majority of community members have now changed their perception and attitudes towards reintegration of repentant insurgents due to the activities of the advocates,” Balami said.
In his remarks, a participant who is also the District Head of Mafa, Prince Abba Kawu, acknowledged that the participants gained a lot from the training to further step up their advocacy.
Kawu lauded the foundation for its commitment and assured to make judicious use of the knowledge acquired for the good of the society.
“I also want to commend the Borno Government for its commitment to lasting peace and encourage it to uphold and upgrade its support to the affected communities, particularly returnees and repentant insurgents by engaging them in agriculture to contribute in addressing food security,” Kawu advised.
