Neem Foundation and Hedayah have successfully completed a training program for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Northeastern Nigeria, aimed at supporting families in countering violent extremism and propaganda from terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP.
The initiative, funded by the European Union, was announced by Ahmed Jumare, Director of Programmes at Neem Foundation, following a six-day workshop held in May at the Grand Sands Hotels in Maiduguri. The training sessions, conducted from May 7th-9th and May 28th-30th, brought together 32 participants from civil societies across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Taraba states.
The Northeast region of Nigeria has been severely affected by the activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups, resulting in displacement, instability, and danger for local communities. Many families have members who have either joined these groups or are at risk of radicalization, making reintegration and acceptance within their communities challenging.
In response, Neem Foundation and Hedayah collaborated to equip CSOs with the skills necessary to support families and counter the influence of violent extremism. The training included group activities and practical exercises to localize the approach and draft effective intervention concepts. Facilitators from Hedayah joined virtually to enhance the sessions.
Participants praised the training, noting the significance of the methodologies taught. Muhammad Ngobdo Hassan highlighted the importance of understanding needs assessments and intervention planning, while Ali Maina from GISCO emphasized the training’s timeliness given the ongoing resettlement efforts in Borno State.
The workshop also addressed the emotional well-being of families and the provision of psychosocial support. Hauwa Muhammad from the Rehabilitation Empowerment for Better Health Initiative stressed the need for community involvement in supporting victims and their families.
Neem Foundation and Hedayah reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing support for similar initiatives. Participants received certificates of attendance and committed to sharing the training with their staff to enhance project implementation in the region.
