Kukah Centre trains 300 Katsina security personnel in rules of engagement

In Katsina State, a crucial initiative is underway to bolster the capacity of our community security personnel. The Kukah Centre, in partnership with the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) program, is conducting a vital week-long training for no fewer than 300 members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps. This training focuses on essential areas such as Standard Operating Procedures, human rights protection, and alternative dispute resolution – critical skills in our ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.

This program, implemented by Tetra Tech International Development, comes at a time when the North-West and North-Central regions of Nigeria are grappling with persistent violence. The increasing reliance on community-based security outfits, like the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, highlights the need for enhanced training and oversight. As the Katsina State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Fadila Dikko, rightly commended, this initiative by the Kukah Centre and SPRiNG is timely and demonstrates foresight in addressing the complex security challenges we face.

“

We must appreciate the Kukah Centre and SPRiNG for this initiative. I urge you, participants, to apply the knowledge gained during this training. Governor Dikko Radda remains committed to ensuring lasting peace in the state.

The SPRiNG program, since its inception in 2024, has been instrumental in improving service delivery across federal, state, and local government levels, particularly in institutions responsible for peace, security, and justice. Its work extends to promoting women and youth participation, supporting livelihoods, and mediating farmer-herder conflicts through sustainable practices. The partnership with the Katsina State Government on various initiatives, including training for traditional rulers and female leaders, underscores a holistic approach to peacebuilding.

From our perspective at The Punch, this training represents a significant step towards professionalizing community security and ensuring adherence to human rights standards. It is imperative that the knowledge gained by these 300 personnel is effectively applied on the ground. Governor Dikko Radda's commitment to lasting peace in Katsina is commendable, and initiatives like this are fundamental to achieving that goal. By equipping our local security forces with the right tools and knowledge, we move closer to building a more resilient and peaceful Nigeria, where community safety is paramount and human rights are respected.

“

The present administration of Governor Dikko Umar Radda is fully committed to protecting lives and