By Sumaila Ogbaje
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has expressed commitment to capacity building of the military, security and other agencies in Nigeria to address challenges in the country.
The Team Lead, Governance, Peace and Security, UNDP, Nigeria, Mr Matthew Alao, said this at the graduation of the participants of Leadership and National Cohesion (LNC) Course 2/2024, in Abuja.
Alao, represented by the Project Analyst Governance, Peace and Security Unit, Oluwatosin Richard, said the completion of course marked the emergence of new leaders equipped with vision, skills and commitment to drive meaningful change across the nation.
“The past one week has been a transformative experience crafted to challenge conventional leadership programmes.
“The graduates have journeyed through intensive modules that transcend traditional boundaries, exploring the critical intersections of governance, peace, security and national cohesion.
“This is not a mere academic exercise, but a practical pathway to imagine our collective potential.
“These initiatives underscore a shared belief that empowering individuals is central to achieving sustainable development, and we remain dedicated to working with our partners to strengthen the capacity of Nigerian leaders.”
Alao congratulated the course participants, saying their achievement was a testament to their hard work, dedication and commitment to the nation.
He expressed confidence that they would make positive impact in Nigeria, the continent and the world at large.
For his part, the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, represented by the Defence Attache, Lt.-Col. Morita Tatsuya, said that Japan had consistently demonstrated commitment in vital training for African-led peace support operations and capacity building in Africa.
“We recognise the crucial role of African-led peace support operations in maintaining peace and stability across the continent.
“In Nigeria, we have been actively supporting peace teaching operation training in partnership with UNDP and various training centres for the past six years, including this esteemed institution.”(NAN)