In recent discussions, stakeholders in Katsina State are drawing lessons from Kano and Niger to improve women’s participation in peacebuilding and security decision‑making.
Katsina, a northern Nigerian state, has traditionally seen limited female representation in security roles. By studying the approaches taken in neighbouring Kano and across the border in Niger, local actors hope to replicate successful models that have empowered women to take active roles in community safety.
In Kano, community policing initiatives have increasingly involved women as mediators and liaison officers, helping to bridge gaps between law‑enforcement agencies and residents. Meanwhile, Niger has integrated women into local security committees, giving them a formal voice in monitoring and conflict‑resolution processes.
Stakeholders—comprising local government officials, civil society groups and women’s organisations—believe that expanding women’s participation can strengthen trust between communities and security institutions, and enhance the effectiveness of peace‑building efforts.
They plan to develop a roadmap that will outline concrete steps for scaling up women’s roles in Katsina’s security sector, drawing on the lessons learned from Kano and Niger to guide policy and practice.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>