By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development in Maiduguri, Borno State, has taken a significant step towards promoting reconciliation and reintegration in the North East region.
On Tuesday, the foundation organized a one-day training workshop for 60 women, comprising 30 Muslims and 30 Christians, from the membership of ICAN and #SheBuildsPeace#. These women are part of non-governmental organizations dedicated to building bridges of reconciliation.
The workshop, held at the Women Development Center in Maiduguri, aimed to educate the women on Transitional Justice, de-radicalization, and reintegration processes. Specifically, the training focused on the experiences of women and girls affected by the Boko Haram insurgency in the state.
In her opening remarks, Executive Director of Allamin Foundation, Hajiya Hamsatu Allamin, emphasized the importance of the workshop.
Hajiya Allamin noted that Christian women and girls have been left behind in government reintegration programs, lacking knowledge about these initiatives. To address this, the foundation brought together members of the #SheBuildsPeace Forum, comprising Muslim and Christian Faith-Based Organizations, to enlighten them on Transitional Justice, Reconciliation, and Dialogue Facilitation skills.
The Facilitator and Project Manager of Allamin Foundation, Shettima Mustapha, thoroughly explained the foundation’s Deradicalization-based education model.
He said this comprehensive approach focuses on understanding community perspectives and pre-conditions for peace, encompassing several key components: Intensive religious messaging de-radicalization Program; mental health and psychosocial support; life and livelihood support; mentoring support; community dialogue and sensitization outreach; policy dialogues and advocacies to key government officials
Mustapha emphasized that understanding community perspectives and pre-conditions for peace requires active community engagement. This involves understanding their frustrations, anger, and responses to the situation, ensuring a holistic and effective approach to building peace.
According to him, “it will also encourage communities to accept the path of tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation with the returning insurgents, Medical/Mental Health and Psychosocial Support.”
“Group and individual counseling mental health and psychosocial support to address trauma, and psychological issues with the de-radicalised Individuals requiring medical attention due to old injuries or medical conditions are referred to medical facilities for attention.
