The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has welcomed new stakeholders in Cross River State to enhance the community peace-building frameworks.
The Prevent Council consists of prominent traditional rulers from communities identified as hotspots of communal land and boundary disputes in the Niger Delta. It also includes representatives of the relevant security agencies, representatives of the State Boundary Commission and other key stakeholders.
During the Prevent Council capacity building meeting in Calabar, the PIND representative, Dr. Chukwudi Njoku stressed the role of traditional rulers as the custodians of culture which peace is an integral component that cannot be overemphasised.
“Traditional rulers play a vital role in peace-building at the grassroots level as part of the cultural heritage of the people, saying modern private and public entities recognise the role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and security, the challenge has been in the process of engagement.
“However, appropriate engagement between government and traditional rulers outlaying responsibilities among the two based on an understanding that synergy is indispensable for both to administrate effectively.
Njoku mentioned that since PIND launched the Prevent Councils in Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Delta states in 2022, members have been acting as positive influencers and mediators for conflicts in their states and communities. They have focused on issues related to communal land and boundary disputes, achieving some notable successes.
In his presentation, ‘Conflict trends and dynamics in the Niger Delta’, Professor Raphael Offiong, a consultant for PIND Prevent Council, highlighted that the primary objective of the Prevent Council is to foster and maintain social harmony and peaceful coexistence in the society, ensuring inclusivity for all individuals.
He stressed that achieving lasting peace requires collaborative efforts with traditional institutions, which play vital roles as positive influences and conflict mediators within their regions and communities.
Chairman of Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, Solomon Osim Edward commended PIND for enhancing the skills of traditional leaders in the state to align with global best practices in conflict management.
He also expressed gratitude to the foundation for its efforts in peace-building.
The highlight of the event was the inducting of new members and presenting them with certificates by Edward.
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