7th July, 2017
The United Nations (UN) and Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society (CWEENS) is to train 2,000 community women for peace and security networking in Plateau.
Mrs Niri Goyit, CWEENS’ Programme Manager, made the disclosure on Friday during the inauguration of 400 women into the Women Peace and Security Network at the Legislative Chamber in Mangu Local Government of Plateau.
‘‘This set of 400 community women we are inaugurating today were trained by 80 women and we expect them (400) to go and do the same, which will give us above 2, 000 women in various communities in the state.
‘‘The development of peace and security of every nation is dependent on the peoples’ ability to work together irrespective of their sex, tribe, religion, colour and status,’’ she said.
Goyit said that the UN through UN Women wing launched a four year project titled; ‘‘Promoting the voice of women in peace and security.’’
She said the project was being implemented by CWEENS in conjunction with the Federation of Muslim Women Association (FOMWAN) and others.
She stated that the focus was on Mangu and Riyom local governments as pilot project adding that soon, it would be extended to other communities across the state.
The Programme Manager disclosed that more than 80 District Heads, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), religious leaders, youths, women leaders and heads of vigilante groups were trained in June 2016.
She said further that a set of 80 women were trained in June, in leadership, conflict management skills, advocacy and public speaking.
According to her, those trained have trained 400 women in eight communities in Mangu and Riyom councils.
‘‘We are today presenting these women who will be working for the peace, growth and development of their communities and local governments toward ensuring that the prevailing peace and security on the Plateau is not only maintained but improved upon,’’ Goyit said.
Also speaking, Mr Yildime Shangula, the acting Chairman of Mangu Local Government, commended the UN and CWEENS for their relentless effort at ‘‘ensuring that women are involved in peace and security in our communities.’’
The chairman, represented by Mr Valentine Opia, the council’s information officer, pledged the support and cooperation of the council to the project.