Attai Audu Jos

The Women and Girl-Child Rescue And Development Initiative in Jos Plateau State, Nigeria, funded by Women for Women International under Conflict Stability and Security Fund (CSSF) has Organized one day Consultative forum on the 4th of April 2023, to discuss issues Sorrounding ‘women peace and security’ in Plateau State, Nigeria.

Oracle Reporters gathered that the one day program had in attendance over seventy women from the communities of Dadin Kowa, Jos South LGA of Plateau State and Congo Russia of Jos North LGA of Plateau State.

During the meeting, the forum participants discussed and profer solutions to ‘trending issues affecting the involvement and participation of women and girls in peace and Security.

Trending issues affecting the involvement and participation of women and girls in peace and security were identified during the one day program including, Culture/religious beliefs, Discrimination. Tribalism.

Other issues identified are that Women are seen as weaker vessels while men seen as the head, Stereotyping, Limited knowledge, Lack of awareness, Lack of involvement of women, Fear and lack of confidence.

Organisations represented at the meeting were, Women Peace and Security Network (WPS), Plateau Peace Practitioners’ Network (PPPN), NAWOJ, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), MWA.

Other participants at the meeting were among others, Community Development Association, Traditional Institutions, Vigilante Heads, Jos North and Jos South; Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Securities and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Jos North and Jos South LGA Representatives; and Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA).

Among the resolutions reached at the meeting were among others, how women and girls can take the lead in strategic advocacy for peace building including, being educated, having one voice, women inclusion in women leadership traditional council, inclusion of women in community policing and community activities, and women assisting each other as women when it matters the most.

Other key recommendations reached at the meeting was that of Creating awareness among women on the need to be involved in the peace process, Encouraging women to speak up,. Advocacies to religious and traditional leaders .

Women were advised not to be

totally dependent on men by building their own capacities and as well be economically empowered .

Additionally,Women were told to create safe spaces amongst themselves. Share their pains and be ready to receive help. And so much more.