Esther Oseyiomon
Stakeholders have called for urgent, practical steps to implement Nigeria’s Policy Framework and National Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PF-NAP).
The call came during a policy forum in Abuja, organised by the PCVE Knowledge Innovation and Resource Hub with support from UK International Development, SPRING Programme and Nextier.
Chair of the PAVE Network, Jaye Gaskia, urged actors to move beyond discussions and focus on identifying gaps and tackling the root causes of violent extremism.
From the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Iye Mangset stressed that policies must translate into real impact through coordination, sustainability and practical implementation.
Beji Gowal of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution said research must drive action at the grassroots, reflecting local realities.
Speaking for the SPRING Programme, Bernard Basason called for better use of existing resources to avoid duplication and strengthen community resilience.
At the community level, Ahmed Jumare of the Neem Foundation warned that shrinking donor funding makes it critical for governments to commit budgetary support.
Also, Kayode Bolaji of the Peace Building Development Commission said lasting impact must begin from individuals and communities, not just national policies.
Participants agreed that stronger coordination, local ownership, and inclusion of women and youth are key to translating the PF-NAP into real impact across Nigeria.