On October 30, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) announced the launch of the Peace Action for Rapid and Transformative Nigeria and Early Response Partner (PARTNER) initiative, aimed at strengthening local peace structures in conflict-prone areas.
This initiative, funded by USAID, seeks to enhance peace and security by building local capacity, improving early warning systems, and fostering collaboration among government agencies, community leaders, and security forces.
Joseph Ochogwu, Director General of IPCR, emphasized the initiative's inclusive nature, bringing together various stakeholders to promote social cohesion and prevent violence. The program currently operates in nine states, including Kwara, Kaduna, Benue, Nassarawa, and Katsina, establishing community-based peace structures.
Key features include an early warning and response application, SMS, and toll-free lines, which have enabled 100 active reporters to document 363 conflict-related incidents. Ochogwu clarified that this is a development initiative, not an intelligence tool, aimed at addressing violence at the community level.
Melissa Jones, USAID Mission Director, noted the rapid response capability, with incidents being addressed within 20 minutes of distress calls. Robert Obande from the National Security Advisor's office highlighted the initiative's potential to foster dialogue and reconciliation, while Ndubisi Anyanwu of Mercy Corps stressed the importance of local ownership in conflict management.
This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable peace in Nigeria, leveraging technology and community engagement to mitigate violence.