Girls Gate Initiative Hosts Landmark Townhall Meeting on Peace and Security in Kano State

In the wake of the ongoing Fadan Daba crisis affecting Kofar Mata and surrounding communities, the Girls Gate Initiative organized a groundbreaking Townhall Meeting to address pressing peace and security issues. Themed “The Role of Women in Promoting Peace and Security in Our Communities,” the event brought together community stakeholders, religious leaders, and experts in conflict resolution to deliberate on actionable solutions for fostering lasting harmony.

The Executive Director of Girls Gate Initiative, Amb. Huzaifa Jamil Kofar Mata emphasized the urgent need for community-driven solutions during his opening remarks. He stated, “This meeting is not just a conversation; it’s a call to action. The safety of our children, the survival of our businesses, and the peace in our neighbourhoods depend on what we do today as a collective.”

Amb. Huzaifa Jamil Kofar Mata

Key Stakeholders and Speakers
The event saw the participation of notable community leaders, including Mai Unguwar Kofar Mata, Alhaji Muhammad Jibril Kofar Mata, Mai Unguwar Zango, Mai Unguwar Zage, and Mai Unguwar Dorayi. Religious leaders from various sects also graced the occasion, highlighting the importance of faith-based approaches in resolving conflicts.

The distinguished lineup of speakers featured:

Detective Auwal Durimin Iya, expert in community policing and security strategies.

CSC Aisha Muhammad Yakasai, Divisional Officer of NSCDC Nassarawa LGA, who addressed the role of women in security enforcement.

Hajia Maryam Muhammad, a representative of Equal Access International, who provided insights into grassroots peace initiatives.

Amb. Maryam Sani Ibrahim, an expert on peace and conflict resolution, who outlined strategies for community resilience.

A highlight of the event was the panel session titled “Ina Mafita?” (Where is the Solution?), moderated by Umar Aminu Umar of Girls Gate Initiative. The panel encouraged attendees to propose practical solutions and reinforced the role of collective responsibility in overcoming challenges.

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Impact and Takeaways
During the discussions, the speakers and participants highlighted the detrimental effects of the ongoing crisis, which has led to the closure of over ten schools and disrupted the livelihoods of many residents. The meeting also shed light on how the instability has hindered the safety of customers and traders in major markets like Kwari, Kofar Wambai, and Singer.

Community stakeholders reiterated the importance of rebuilding trust among residents and fostering collaboration with law enforcement agencies. Mai Unguwar Kofar Mata Alhaji Muhammad Jibril, remarked, “Our communities must come together, united by the desire for peace. It is our collective effort that will bring stability to this region.”

A Vision for Peace
The Townhall Meeting concluded with actionable commitments from community leaders, law enforcement representatives, and attendees. It was a resounding success, not only for initiating critical discussions but also for laying the groundwork for sustainable peace.

Amb. Huzaifa Jamil Kofar Mata expressed his gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed the Girls Gate Initiative’s dedication to creating safe and thriving communities. He said, “Peace is not just the absence of violence; it is the presence of justice, harmony, and opportunity. Together, we will rebuild and restore our neighbourhoods.”

As Kano State grapples with its challenges, the Girls Gate Initiative is steadfast in its mission to empower communities, promote dialogue, and champion the role of women in peacebuilding.

“Peace begins when communities unite for a common goal.