The North East Development Commission (NEDC) Tuesday commenced a 3-day workshop for 100 journalists and Civil Society Organisations in the states of the North east on non-kinetic approaches on the fight against insurgency in the sub region.
Speaking at the commencement of the training in Maiduguri, the NEDC managing director, Alkali Goni described journalists and the CSOs as critical partners in achieving the mandate.
Alkali said the training is part of the NEDC’s commitment to equip journalists and the Civil Society Organisations with the knowledge and strategies necessary towards promoting non kinetic approaches on countering insurgency, fostering peace and promoting social cohesion in the North- east region.
Represented by the commission’s Head of Early Recovery, Sani Umar, the MD noted that the role of the media in driving sustainable development in the region cannot be over emphasised, hence the need for working synergy between the journalists and the CSOs for better service delivery.
He said the commission needs support of the journalists and the Civil Society Organisations in key areas for maximum impact of its activities, thereby addressing the numerous challenges facing the sub region.
He solicited for the continued support of stakeholders for NEDC to achieve its vision of ensuring a thriving peaceful region leveled up with productive economic shifts for enhanced outputs, inclusive growth and self-sufficiency.
On his part, a communication expert, Professor Umar Pate challenged media to wake up and leverage on Artificial Intelligence applications in order to be relevant in the society by making positive contributions to its progress and development.