As the world paid tribute to humanitarian workers on world humanitarian day, the Network of Civil Society Organisations, Borno State (NECSOB) recognised efforts of civil society groups at the grassroots. On the sidelines of a PERL-supported induction event for NECSOB executives, which held in Abuja, NECSOB held a press briefing to honour efforts of the civil society groups, among others who ensure that needs of communities are addressed in the wake of carnage caused by the Boko Haram insurgency in North East Nigeria.

This year’s theme focused on celebrating “Women Humanitarians” and their determined contribution in addressing crisis in conflict regions. Fatima Shehu Imam of the Rehabilitation Empowerment and Better Health Initiative (REBHI) acknowledged women’s role in peace building while advocating for special protection for women. She stated as first responders, special protection needed to be put in place for women as they provide selfless service in the interest of their communities. 

Message from Fatima Shehu Imam on World Humanitarian Day

In addition, the Chairman of NECSOB, Ambassador Ahmed Shehu, in his remarks acknowledged the UK aid funded PERL programme for the opportunity to commemorate the day. He commended security agencies for their efforts in protecting the territorial sovereignty in Nigeria, while sympathizing with the families of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.  

See below links to media coverage:

News Agency of Nigeria: Humanitarian day: Group lauds security agencies for protecting lives, property 

Daily Trust: ‘B/Haram killed 40,000, displaced 3m in 10 years’ 

 Strengthening Capacity to Develop and Implement a Strategic Action Plan

The event was part of PERL efforts at supporting the NECSOB executives with developing their strategic action plan and reviewing the organisation’s constitution that will be operationalised. As NECSOB positions itself as a distinct coordinating body in the state, it will likewise continue to work with community-based organisations in taking up the plight of citizens in Borno and creating awareness for a better understanding of government policies.

Sessions during the event included an induction process for newly elected NECSOB executives and progressed to group discussions where members were tasked on deliberating on NECSOB’s past engagements and planning likely outcomes for the organisation going forward. This included interactive and entertaining methods where members were told to write on balloons key words that define a clear and achievable vision and mission. The participatory sessions were geared at generating input from all members as critical stakeholders who will be part of implementing the Strategic Action Plan drafted. Some of the feedback highlighted from members include the need for more Civil Society Organisations to take centre stage in leading development interventions in the State.

The 3-day event has started the process of producing the policy documents that will guide NECSOB coordination activities when engaging the government, citizen groups and humanitarian partners to promote accountability of ongoing recovery efforts in Borno.