US invests $15m, trains 46,000 in conflict resolution in Northern Nigeria

In a concerted effort to tackle deep-seated conflict dynamics in northern and middle-belt Nigeria, the United States government has disclosed a substantial investment of $15 million over five years towards training initiatives aimed at resolving disputes and promoting peace in vulnerable communities.

This initiative, known as the Community Initiatives to Promote Peace (CIPP) programme, has reportedly trained over 46,000 community members across six states: Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kogi, and Plateau.

According to a statement released by the U.S. Embassy on Tuesday, the CIPP programme has equipped participants, including traditional leaders, women, men, and youth, with essential skills in dispute resolution, early warning systems, reconciliation efforts, and the prevention of violent extremism.

The focus has been on addressing multifaceted tensions stemming from ethnic, regional, and sectarian divides.

The impact of the CIPP initiative has been notable, significantly mitigating violent conflicts in at-risk areas and actively engaging women and youth in peace-building processes. A randomized control trial conducted to assess the programme’s effectiveness demonstrated promising outcomes.

The study compared communities where the CIPP interventions were implemented to nearby control communities without interventions, revealing a 26% reduction in violent incidents within CIPP-treated communities.

Melissa Jones, the USAID Mission director, emphasized the tangible benefits of investing in peacebuilding efforts, citing the successful resolution of numerous disputes by individuals trained in conflict mediation across Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

The CIPP’s achievements are set to endure beyond its conclusion, with USAID planning to transfer community structures such as Conflict Mitigation Regional Councils and Women Peace Councils to its new Peace Action for Rapid and Transformative Nigerian Early Response activity, ensuring the continuity of progress in fostering peace and security in northern and middle-belt Nigeria.

This sustained commitment by the U.S. government underscores a strategic approach to addressing the root causes of conflict and advancing stability in regions grappling with longstanding tensions.

The collaborative efforts with Nigeria reflect a shared commitment to fostering enduring peace and resilience within these communities.