Peace commission trains 40 media practitioners on conflict early warning reporting

By Hussaina Yakubu

The Kaduna State Peace Commission has organized a one day training for 40 kaduna media practitioners on conflict early warning and early response system (CEWERS), to promote stability at higher levels of social cohesion

Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, Dr. Saleh Momale, said the engagement would bring about better level of corporate management of resources through reporting of sensitive conflict matters.

He also encouraged the people to utilise early warning and early response facilities put in place by the commission, in collaboration with the United Nations programmes and agencies.

According to him, the training which is in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, will help security agencies and wide range of stakeholders to manage all threats to peaceful coexistence in the state.

“We are hoping for a more friendly environment and working relationship between the media and the kaduna State Peace Commission.”

He said this would prompt more positive reportage of sensitive matters and citizens increased understanding  existing between the commission and civil society organisaions.

He explained that Kaduna state had been challenged by insecurity, including periodic ethno religious conflicts between herders and farmers as well as high intensity of banditary in some parts of the state.

He said the commission would continue to work with various stakeholders in addressing the situation .

He stressed the importance of information in providing accurate and reliable information to the citizens in assisting, mobilising and creating the needed awareness to promote peaceful and harmonious relationship.

On her part , Mrs Rebecca Sako, Permanent Commissioner at the commission, said the state was developing a strategic plan to strengthen peaceful relationship in some crisis areas.

She said the training would help to strengthen media capacity and change their perspective to promote peace and security across the state.

Kaduna Zonal Director of National Broadcasting Commission, Mr Jamilu Jega, advised the media practitioners to always imbibe the guiding principle of balance of the broadcast code in order to promote peace and economic development in Nigeria.

Also, Mr Samson Auta of Interfaith Mediation Centre, said the training sought to reduce key drivers of violence.

He said the training would also equip the participants with skills of communication and how to manage any given situation.

(NAN)