The United Nation Tuesday charged all security agencies in the country on the need to ensure adequate protection of civilians and humanitarian workers during violent conflicts.
The UN agency also noted that civilians often bear the brunt of hostilities and uncertainties in conflict zones around the world, there is the need to ‘ensure their safety, uphold their rights and safeguard their dignities.’
The Team Lead, of the Governance, Peace, and Security Unit of the UNDP, Matthew Alao, said this on Tuesday, July 2, at the inauguration ceremony of the Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course 36/2024, at the Nigerian Army Resource Center, Abuja.
The course was organized by the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAIPKC) and sponsored by UNDP in conjunction with the Government of Japan.
Alao said the course was designed to arm the participants with the tools and strategies necessary to navigate the complexities of protecting civilians in armed conflict.
He said: “As we inaugurate this course today, let us remember that the true measure of our success lies in the positive impact that we create in the lives of those we are committed to protect.
”This course, which will run through July 12, is a testament to our collective commitment to the realization of the UN Resolution 1265 on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.
”The protection of civilians is not just a professional call to duty, it is a moral imperative.
”By enhancing our capabilities to protect civilians in armed conflict, we are contributing to a more just and peaceful world.
”I encourage you all to engage fully, learn from one another, and take this opportunity to build a sustainable network for your career and leadership.
”Our study partnership underscores our shared commitment to fulfilling Resolution 1265 of the United Nations on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.”
In his remarks, The Commandant of MLAIPKC, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja said the Centre was committed to enhancing peacekeeping operations in Nigeria and the African continent through training.
He said the inauguration of the course represented an essential step forward in their collective efforts to ensure the pro-activeness of peacekeepers in the aspect of protection of civilians in conflict zones.
Gen. Adedoja said the course also demonstrated the commitment of international partners to support MLAILPKC in delivering quality and realistic training to potential peacekeepers.
The Commandant said the course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for the performance of Comprehensive Protection of Civilian functions in an integrated peace operations environment.
He said: “This course will also provide participants with the expertise and strategies necessary to protect civilians in conflict zones.
”It will also serve as measures to win the heart and minds of the local indigene in conflict and post-conflict environment among others.”
