UNDP seeks protection for civilians during conflict

The United Nations Development Programme has urged security agencies to prioritise the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers during armed conflicts.

The organisation said doing so would help minimise casualties.

The Team Lead, Governance, Peace, and Security Unit, UNDP, Nigeria, Matthew Alao, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course 36/2024.

Alao, represented by  Richard Olugula, noted that civilians often suffer the most in conflict zones worldwide.

He emphasized the need to ensure their safety, uphold their rights, and safeguard their dignity.

Alao said, “There is a need to ensure adequate protection of the civilian population by peacekeepers, security personnel, and humanitarian workers during violent conflicts to minimise casualties.

“Civilians often bear the brunt of hostilities and uncertainties in conflict zones around the world.  There is a need to ensure their safety, uphold their rights and safeguard their dignities.”

He said the course was designed to arm the participants with the tools and strategies necessary to navigate the complexities of protecting civilians in armed conflict.

”As we inaugurate this course today, let us remember that the true measure of our success lies in the positive impact that we create in the lives of those we are committed to protecting.

”The protection of civilians is not just a professional call to duty; it is a moral imperative.

”By enhancing our capabilities to protect civilians in armed conflict, we contribute to a more just and peaceful world.

”I encourage you all to engage fully, learn from one another, and take this opportunity to build a sustainable network for your career and leadership,” he said.

Alao commended Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre for its dedication and leadership in developing national and regional capacities for peace support operations at all levels.

The commandant, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, said the centre was committed to enhancing peacekeeping operations in Nigeria and the African continent through training.

The commandant also said that the course was aligned with the UN training standards and qualified participants to be deployed in integrated peacekeeping operations such as UN, AU, and ECOWAS missions.

The PUNCH reports that the course drew participants from the military, para-military agencies, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and non-governmental organisations in six West African countries, including Nigeria.