GCERF-Funded Workshop Strengthens Multi-Stakeholder Coordination in Fight Against Violent Extremism
Two-Day Stakeholder Capacity-Building Workshop on PCVE, Community Resilience and Coordination Mechanisms
RAIHANA NEWS reports that stakeholders from government ministries, security agencies, civil society organizations, traditional and religious institutions, as well as youth and women groups, gathered for an intensive two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at deepening knowledge and strengthening coordination in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE). The workshop was funded by the GCERF (Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund) and implemented in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), PAVE Network, and relevant state partners.
The programme commenced with the arrival and registration of participants, followed by welcome remarks from the PAVE Network and opening statements from a representative of the State Government. Stakeholders delivered goodwill messages, setting the tone for a collaborative and impactful engagement.
The technical discussions began as Hauwa Djaoro delivered an introductory overview on PCVE, Community Resilience, and Community-Based Reintegration and Reconciliation (CB-RRR). Her presentation highlighted the importance of multi-layered engagement and community participation in addressing violent extremism and promoting long-term stability.
This was followed by a session led by Jamila Musa, who guided participants through the process of identifying key stakeholders and understanding their mandates within the PCVE framework. She emphasized the need for coordinated roles, reduced duplication of efforts, and strategic communication to ensure sustainable results.
After a brief tea break, Hauwa Djaoro returned for another highly engaging session focusing on the responsibilities of government MDAs, security agencies, and the State PCVE Steering Committees. She stressed that institutional coordination, policy alignment, and proactive response mechanisms are vital in tackling emerging threats.
Later in the day, Dr. Dele Akangbe facilitated a conversation on the contributions of CSOs, traditional rulers, and religious institutions. He spoke on their unique influence in peace-building, conflict resolution, community sensitization, and support for vulnerable populations.
Following the lunch break, Maryam Aje engaged participants on the critical role of youth, women, and marginalized groups in strengthening social cohesion and enhancing community resilience. The day's activities closed with reflections, Q&A, and a briefing on assignments for the next day, led by Halima Suleiman.
DAY TWO ACTIVITIES
The second day began with a recap session facilitated by Halima Suleiman, who engaged participants in reviewing key lessons from Day One. This was followed by an extensive presentation by Hauwa Djaoro on the functions of Thematic Working Groups (TWGs) in the development of State and Local Action Plans (SAP/LAP). She explained their importance in ensuring structured collaboration across agencies and communities.
After the tea break, Dr. Dele Akangbe delivered a session on coordination architecture across Local Government Areas and its connection to the State PCVE Steering Committees. He highlighted the need for strong vertical and horizontal linkages among stakeholders to ensure seamless implementation of action plans
Maryam Aje then took participants through effective approaches for working with vulnerable groups, victims, and returning persons. She emphasized psychosocial support, sensitivity in engagement, and the importance of community acceptance in reintegration processes.
Following lunch, Dr. Akangbe returned to lead a practical simulation where participants collaboratively developed stakeholder coordination plans for SAP/LAP implementation. This hands-on exercise allowed attendees to apply the knowledge gained throughout the workshop.
The programme concluded with a final reflection session facilitated by Dr. Akangbe and Maryam Aje. They outlined practical next steps for each stakeholder beyond the training, stressing collaboration, accountability, and continuous engagement. The workshop ended with evaluation submissions, closing remarks, and group photographs.
RAIHANA NEWS observed that the GCERF-funded workshop significantly strengthened stakeholder capacity, deepened understanding of coordination mechanisms, and enhanced collective readiness to advance peace, security, and resilience in communities across the state.
