PCVE-KIRH Initiative Marks Milestone in Regional Cooperation Against Violent Extremism

By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi

The Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) initiative, in partnership with the Knowledge Innovation and Research Hub (KIRH), successfully convened the Northwest Node meeting on June 30, 2025, at the prestigious Tahir Guest Palace in Kano. Esteemed representatives from six key states in Northwest Nigeria – Kano, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Kaduna – attended the gathering.

The meeting's primary objective was to facilitate collaboration, share knowledge, and develop strategies to effectively prevent and counter violent extremism in the region. By fostering dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders, the PCVE-KIRH initiative aims to promote peace, stability, and security in Northwest Nigeria.

A significant milestone achieved during the meeting was the formal inauguration of representatives from Kebbi, Sokoto, and Kaduna states. Dr. Abdullahi Maiwada, Chairman of the team, administered the Oath of Office to Hassana Abubakar Koko (Kebbi State), Professor Othman AbdulQadir (Sokoto State), and Grace Sandra Ayuba (Kaduna State), marking their official induction into the initiative.

The meeting's key discussion points included sharing best practices in PCVE, identifying regional challenges and opportunities, developing tailored strategies for each state, and strengthening partnerships and resource mobilization. These efforts aim to enhance regional cooperation and build resilience against violent extremism.

Prof. Jaye Gaskiya, National Coordinator of the PAVE Network, emphasized the network's commitment to supporting regional initiatives and promoting peace and stability in Nigeria. "Collaborative efforts are crucial in achieving our goals of preventing and countering violent extremism," he said via Zoom.

Hassana Abubakar Koko, Coordinator for Kebbi State, expressed optimism about the initiative's potential to promote peace and stability in the region. "We are committed to working together to prevent and counter violent extremism in our states," he said.

The PCVE-KIRH initiative works in collaboration with the National Centre for Counter Terrorism of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and Institute of Peace & Conflict Resolution. With this partnership, the initiative is poised to make a significant impact in Northwest Nigeria. The meeting was generously sponsored by ActionAid, underscoring the organization's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace and stability in the region.