The United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) in Nigeria, through its Strengthening Peace and Resilience (SPRiNG) programme, has organized a four-day training workshop for traditional rulers in Katsina State on conflict resolution and mediation.

Declaring the training open, Governor Dikko Umar Radda, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abdullahi Faskari, emphasized the crucial role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace. He noted that peace is essential for socio-economic development, and the involvement of traditional leaders is fundamental due to their close connection with communities.

“This is surely inherent in their own activities from time immemorial for them to settle people for peaceful coexistence. So, attempts to bring about modernization, new ideas, ways, and knowledge that will improve their activities, I think, is a welcome development,” Radda stated.

Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo, Team Lead of the SPRiNG programme, highlighted the UK government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s peace-building efforts, recognizing Nigeria’s crucial role in African stability. He stressed that instability in Nigeria could impact the entire continent, making peace-building initiatives a priority.

The Training Coordinator, Prof. Muhammed Tabiu of Green Horizon, explained that the workshop aimed to enhance traditional rulers’ mediation skills and deepen their understanding of Nigeria’s justice system. He noted that the increasing challenges of banditry and terrorism in the North-West make such training even more critical.

The participants were expected to gain practical skills in conflict resolution, mediation, and law enforcement collaboration to strengthen peace and security in their communities.