In a bold step toward securing lasting peace and community resilience, Katsina State has launched the Building Inclusive Peace (BIP) Project, a transformative initiative aimed at fostering sustainable stability through inclusion and collaboration.
The project, spearheaded by Gender Awareness Trust in partnership with the SPRING Programme, is supported by UK International Development and implemented through Tetra Tech. It is currently being rolled out in three key local government areas—Katsina, Dutsinma, and Batagarawa—with the aim of promoting peaceful coexistence, justice, and collective action.
The official launch brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including traditional and community leaders, representatives of government bodies, civil society organizations, women’s groups, people with special needs, and security agencies—underscoring the shared responsibility in building a more peaceful Katsina.
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Sa’idu Ibrahim Danja, Senior Special Assistant on IDPs and Victims of Armed Banditry, hailed the initiative as timely and in sync with Governor Dikko Radda’s administration’s commitment to ensuring long-term peace. He emphasized the importance of inclusiveness, especially for marginalized groups, in the process of conflict resolution and social cohesion.
“This project is not just about peace—it’s about justice, equality, and ensuring every voice is heard,” Danja affirmed, pledging full government support toward its successful execution.
Dr. Lydia Umar, Executive Director of Gender Awareness Trust, echoed these sentiments, stressing that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without involving women, youth, and other vulnerable populations.
“The BIP Project is a call to action—for all of us to work together and build a future where peace is inclusive and lasting,” Dr. Umar said.
Representing SPRING’s North West Zone Regional Manager, Mr. Emmanuel described the project as a milestone in peacebuilding efforts, calling for stronger collaboration from all stakeholders to ensure impactful delivery.
Other speakers included Alhaji Isah Miqdad, Chairman of Katsina Local Government; Yandakan Katsina, Alhaji Sada Muhammad Sada; Danmadamin Katsina, Alhaji Usman Usman Nagogo; as well as representatives from civil society and the Nigeria Police.
The event featured a presentation by Program Manager Sophie Akut, who offered an overview of the project’s objectives, followed by a panel discussion on strategies for its smooth and effective implementation.
As Katsina takes this major step forward, the Building Inclusive Peace Project is set to serve as a model for community-driven, inclusive, and enduring peace across Northern Nigeria.