For more than a decade, the Nigerian states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe have been plunged into turmoil, grappling with grave crimes against children amid growing insecurity. These young individuals have not only been the target but have also been forcibly engaged by hostile groups in acts of violence or exploited in various manners. In response to these distressing developments, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), through its dedicated End Violence Against Children (ENDVAC) initiative, is set to roll out an ambitious project in 2024 titled “Protecting Children From Violence in Contexts of Insecurity, North-East Nigeria.” This initiative is aimed at bolstering child protection and enhancing accountability in these beleaguered regions.
Leveraging the insights and successes realized by UNODC’s endeavours in Nigeria’s child protection sector since 2018, particularly through the STRIVE Juvenile program, this new project is anchored in both international and national legal frameworks, emphasizing human rights. It endeavours to halt the cycle of recruitment and re-recruitment of children into violent activities, focusing on their recovery and societal reintegration through a collaborative approach that involves both the government and community stakeholders.
A pivotal part of this initiative is a youth-led campaign in the states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe, designed to empower young individuals to champion peace and foster intergenerational dialogue and cooperation. This campaign aims to strengthen the resilience of children and their communities against the backdrop of ongoing reconciliation efforts, specifically targeting the prevention of child recruitment and mitigating the stigma faced by children reintegrating into society.
Key Highlights of the UNODC Youth Peace Champion Campaign:
- Campaign Overview: A youth-led initiative promoting peace and resilience in North-East Nigeria.
- Benefits: Participants will emerge as pivotal peace advocates within their communities, contribute to counter-terrorism dialogues, network with peace and reconciliation stakeholders, gain insights from the UNODC ENDVAC team, and receive recognition for their participation.
- Eligibility: Open to residents aged 18-29 from specific local government areas in Yobe and Adamawa States, with a preference for applicants fluent in Kanuri, Hausa, or English.
- Application Process: Prospective candidates must apply by May 17, 2024, through the United Nations’ official application portal.
This campaign not only offers a unique opportunity for youth to actively contribute to peace-building but also facilitates their personal and professional growth. Interested candidates are encouraged to seize this chance to make a difference in their communities while gaining invaluable experiences and recognition. For further details and to apply, visit the United Nations website before the application deadline.
