By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
Borno State is adopting innovative peacebuilding strategies widely regarded as the successful Borno Model to consolidate recovery in communities affected by the Boko Haram insurgency. The model, developed under the leadership of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, continues to focus on rehabilitation, reintegration, and resilience-building as a sustainable pathway to lasting peace.
As part of this renewed approach, the North-East Development Commission NEDC in collaboration with Sunnah TV Maiduguri has commenced a three-day Train-the-Trainer workshop on new approaches to conflict resolution and managing the Boko Haram aftermath.
The workshop brings together traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society, academia, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Justice, and key community actors to deepen dialogue on social healing, transitional justice, and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking at the opening, Managing Director of Sunnah TV, Mohammed Tukur Ibrahim, commended the NEDC for its unwavering commitment to peacebuilding and capacity development across the region. He also applauded the Zulum-led administration for providing an enabling environment that continues to support interventions strengthening community cohesion.
He emphasized that Borno is no longer defined by insurgency but by its courage, resilience, and the collective will to rebuild lives.
“We are gathered not in despair, but with renewed purpose,” he said. “Properly trained peace champions are key to sustaining the recovery and reintegration process across our communities.”
Also speaking, Chairman of Northeast Civil Society Organisations, Amb. Ahmed Shehu, noted that civil society groups remain committed to supporting government initiatives that help communities live in peace again.
Women rights advocate, Yagana Mohammed, highlighted the critical role women continue to play in peacebuilding, adding that they still bear the deepest scars of the conflict.
Representing the Borno State Commissioner of Police, ACP Mohammed Alkali assured that the Nigeria Police Force will continue to support all peace processes to ensure citizens live without fear.
Stakeholders, including international NGOs, security experts, and community leaders, delivered goodwill messages urging continued collaboration to prevent a relapse into violence and strengthen trust among affected populations.
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