Zamfara advocates for victims support fund for banditry victims, as key to peace-building

The Zamfara State Government in Nigeria is pushing for the establishment of a Victims Support Fund, viewing it as an essential element in its broader strategy to combat banditry and foster lasting peace. The call was articulated by Abubakar Mohammed Nakwada, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), during the official inauguration of the Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) Peace and Security Committee.

Governor Dauda Lawal, represented by his deputy Mani Malam Mummuni, inaugurated the committee in Gusau. The SSG emphasized that the committee's work will align with the administration's commitment to reconciliation, pursued from a position of strength, adherence to the rule of law, and without compromising justice or community security. He stressed the need for a credible DDR framework that complements security operations and strengthens community resilience.

Nakwada highlighted a critical concern: the DDR framework must not create the perception that perpetrators of violence are rewarded while their victims are neglected. "For peace to be credible and sustainable, victims must see themselves at the centre of the peacebuilding process," he stated. He argued that DDR cannot be complete if it solely focuses on those laying down arms without addressing the consequences faced by victims.

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For peace to be credible and sustainable, victims must see themselves at the centre of the peacebuilding process.

"There is therefore an urgent need for a well-structured Zamfara State Victims Support Fund framework as an integral component of our wider peace and security architecture," the SSG added. This fund would provide transparent and coordinated support for victims and affected communities, encompassing rehabilitation, psychosocial support, livelihood restoration, assistance for vulnerable families, education, and community recovery.

Following the committee's inauguration, the SSG led a delegation to inspect the Northwest DDR Camp for Operation Safe Corridor in Tsafe, a facility funded by the state government. Additionally, former Colombian National Security Advisor Sergio Jaramillo expressed his team's willingness to partner with Zamfara State in developing strategies to address the region's security challenges, drawing parallels with Colombia's past experiences.

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There is therefore an urgent need for a well-structured Zamfara State Victims Support Fund framework as an integral component of our wider peace and security architecture.