Network advocates coordinated peace, development in Niger Delta

Niger Delta Peace and Security Network (NDPSN) has advocated peace and development in the oil-rich region.

The group made the advocacy at the separate meetings facilitated by Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) in Umuahia, Uyo, Warri and Port Harcourt to reduce conflict and violence in the area by enhancing peace and security through inquiry panels, special committees, programmes, legislations and interventions.

At the events, PIND’s Integrated Peace and Development Unit (IPDU) provided data on emerging and prevailing trends in conflict and insecurity.

Members also gave recommendations on sustaining peace-building efforts in the zone.

Fred Nohwo of the African Centre for Environmental and Rural Development in Delta State said CSOs should not centralise their activities in the urban areas.

“They (CSOs) should expand their scope to the suburbs and rural areas where conflicts are prevalent,”
he advised.

Esiton Foundation’s Emmanuel Edah implored leaders to be more sincere, accountable and dedicated to their calls to service.

Also, Paul Ekpe of the Initiatives for Sustainable Peace & Entrepreneurship Development appealed to security agencies to build more trust among the public through their actions.

Members of the network include civil society organisations (CSOs), traditional and religious leaders involved in strengthening Niger Delta’s peace, security and development.

Following the meetings, NDPSN recommended curbing prevalent general and election-based violence via activities that promote social good such as PIND’s Niger Delta Peace Champions Programme.