UNDP ENSURES PROTECTION FOR CIVILIANS DURING CONFLICT

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The United Nations Development Programme has urged security agencies to prioritise the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers during armed conflicts. The organisation stated  that by taking this action, casualties would be reduced.

At the opening of the Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course 36/2024 in Abuja , Matthew Alao, the Team Lead for the Governance, Peace, and Security Unit of the UNDP in Nigeria, made this statement.

Alao, represented by  Richard Olugula, pointed out that civilians often suffer the most in conflict zones worldwide.

He emphasised how important it is to protect their rights, maintain their safety, and preserve their dignity.

Alao said, “There is a need to ensure adequate protection of the civilian population by peacekeepers, security personnel, and humanitarian workers during violent conflicts to minimise casualties.

“Civilians often bear the brunt of hostilities and uncertainties in conflict zones around the world. There is a need to ensure their safety, uphold their rights and safeguard their dignities.”

According to him, the goal of the course was to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully negotiate the challenges of safeguarding people during armed conflict.

”As we inaugurate this course today, let us remember that the true measure of our success lies in the positive impact that we create in the lives of those we are committed to protecting.

”The protection of civilians is not just a professional call to duty; it is a moral imperative.

”By enhancing our capabilities to protect civilians in armed conflict, we contribute to a more just and peaceful world.

”I encourage you all to engage fully, learn from one another, and take this opportunity to build a sustainable network for your career and leadership,” he said.

”The protection of civilians is not just a professional call to duty; it is a moral imperative.

Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, the commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, stated that the facility is dedicated to improving peacekeeping efforts in Nigeria and the African continent through training.

The commandant added that the programme met UN training requirements and prepared graduates for deployment to UN, AU, and ECOWAS missions, among other integrated peacekeeping operations.

 

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