Support female survivors of Boko Haram in Nigeria

Hi friends,

I hope this email finds you well.

International Alert Nigeria have had another busy holiday period working with communities affected by conflict. Here are some highlights of our work from the last three months.

Alert trained youth Peace Mentors in conflict and gender sensitivity and mediation techniques to help to prevent, mitigate and manage conflicts within their circles of influence. After training, these youths independently carried out peer-to-peer learning sessions in their communities to discuss peacebuilding and civic responsibility. They have identified local conflict triggers and are now working with stakeholders to prevent conflicts from becoming violent. 

A positive unintended outcome of the Mentors' community learning sessions was the increased enrollment of young out-of-school street hawkers and drug addicts in school.These youths have also committed to being agents of change in their respective communities thanks to their engagement with the Peace Mentors.

The team also supported vulnerable communities at risk of recruitment by Boko Haram by supporting them with peace grant initiatives such as touch lights, solar panels, hygiene equipment etc. to improve their wellbeing and resilience. According to community members, these peace grants were timely and made them feel loved and cared for. Alert also provides financial support and income opportunities, support for youth protection programmes and dialogue spaces to address the underlying drivers of violent extremism in Nigeria.

“The youths in our community engaged themselves in politics due to idleness and the politicians took advantage of their situation. However, this intervention has changed their behaviors and attitude positively. The welfare and peace grant items will help in engaging more youths in community development activities”.

Zanna Abba Kaka, Community leader.

Your donations help to provide the skills and services that can prevent violence and transform vulnerable lives. Thank you once again for your ongoing support and commitment to peace.

Yours in peace,

Ollie