In its concerted effort to ensure ownership and sustainability of European Union funded programmes after expiration in the state, the Yobe state government has inaugurated an Advisory Board for Managing Conflicts in Northeast Nigeria (MCN).

Performing the ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government, Baba Mallam Wali charged the members of the advisory board to justify the confidence reposed on them as their choice was made based on their individual track records of hard work and commitments to the service.

“Your appointment into this board is approved by Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State based on the records of your hard work and dedication to the services”, he said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the State Team lead of the MCN in Yobe Abdulkadir Sambo, said the Programme has come a long way in engaging with state and local level conflicts management institutions with a view to strengthen their capacity to effectively manage conflicts.

He also stressed that the Programme has worked to improve capacities of both formal and non-formal security structures such as the Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local vigilante and civil society organizations on conflict management, mediation, reconciliation and engagements against sexual and gender based violence.

The National Programme Manager, Professor Mohammed Tabiu SAN highlighted the activities of the Programme, informed the members that the Programme is funded by the European Union and implemented by the British Council in the 3 states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe.

Those inaugurated were Barrister Baba Dala as chairman, Hon. Sale Samanja, Alhaji Maisanda Lawan, Rev. Father Y. P, Inda, Mallam Hudu Mohammed among others.

The board’s term of reference is to support the Programme and offer advice on opportunities, trends, challenges and issues of strategic importance to the Programme in the State,  to facilitate beneficial engagement between MCN and its partners and stakeholders.

Others are to act as ambassadors and advocates for MCN Programme supported initiatives.