WELCOME REMARKS BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CLEEN FOUNDATION AT THE CIVIL-MILITARY FORUM ON THE PERFORMANCE OF HUMAN RIGHTS DESKS IN MILITARY FORMATIONS AND OPERATIONS IN NIGERIA HELD AT THE CONFERENCE HALL OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, ABUJA ON THE 23RD OF JULY 2024
The Executive Secretary NHRC,
The Distinguished Chairman Senate Committee on Defence,
The Hon. Chairman House Committee on Defence,
Representative of Security Agencies here Present, (Army, Navy, Air force)
Members of the 4th Estate of the Realm,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It brings me great joy to stand before you this morning, to speak about an issue that is at the core of what CLEEN Foundation’s strategic intervention, which is Civil Military Relations. I want to particularly thank the Executive Secretary for agreeing to work together with CLEEN Foundation whilst we also extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and relatives of those who lost their lives defending the territorial integrity of the country. It further underscored why this event is timely.
Months ago, CLEEN Foundation commissioned research that aimed to underscore the critical importance of understanding the dynamics of social relations between the civilian populations and the military. It primarily sought to discuss the state of Civil-Military Relations in Northeast and Northwest, Nigeria, as well as contribute to building a better relationship between the military and the media for enhanced civil military relations and assess security dynamics within the Borno and Zamfara state context vis- a-viz civil military relations.
The research showed a deficit trajectory of the civil military programmes and interventions using a laboratory diagnosis of the factors constraining social relations amongst populations. Hence, in a Country fraught with conflicts and crises, the significance of this dialogue cannot be overstated. It serves as a guiding light, reminding us of our collective responsibility to alleviate human suffering, protect the vulnerable, and maintain a semblance of civility even amid the chaos of conflict. As stakeholders, you play an indispensable role in translating these principles into actionable measures that can make a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals.
Finally, I want to acknowledge each one of you here today as your presence reflects your commitment to enhancing security and civil-military relations in Nigeria. I encourage you to actively engage in the discussions, share your perspectives, and collaborate with your peers to make this event a resounding success.
Thank you once again for joining us. I look forward to fruitful discussions, meaningful interactions, and impactful outcomes.
Let us begin this important journey together.
Gad Peter
Executive Director