The workshop, held at the Dosso Governorate, brought together various stakeholders to discuss the process of disarmament and reintegration of ex-combatants and individuals associated with armed groups. The event was attended by the Governor of Dosso Region, Colonel-Major Bana Alhassane, representatives from the Ministry of Interior, administrative, customary, religious, military, and civilian authorities, as well as women's, youth, and civil society organizations.
In his opening remarks, Colonel-Major Bana Alhassane emphasized that voluntary disarmament presents an opportunity to reduce violence and allow those who wish to renounce armed groups to reintegrate into society while respecting laws and security imperatives. He stressed the need for institutional, security, and community support, highlighting that the success of the process depends on the involvement of all stakeholders.
The Governor also underscored the vision of Niger's President, General Abdourahamane Tiani, as outlined in the Republic's Refoundation Program, and the orientations of Interior Minister, General Mohamed Toumba. He urged participants to formulate operational recommendations to ensure that disarmament marks the beginning of a controlled process of exiting violence and restoring social cohesion.
Malam Goni Ibrahim, National Coordinator of Stabilization Programs, expressed gratitude to authorities and participants for their engagement. He noted that the presence of the CNPSR in Dosso is not merely an administrative visit but a demonstration of proximity and effectiveness in implementing government orientations on security and stabilization.
Malam Goni Ibrahim emphasized that disarmament should be viewed as the start of a structured process, including identification, orientation, care, and reintegration of eligible individuals. He stressed the need for rigorous coordination among territorial administration, defense and security forces, justice, technical services, customary and religious authorities, local authorities, women, youth, and partners.
According to Malam Goni Ibrahim, the success of the process relies on trust: trust in the state, trust in institutions, and trust among communities. The workshop aims to foster this trust and ensure a comprehensive approach to disarmament and reintegration.
The regional workshop in Dosso seeks to enhance the capacities of stakeholders involved in the disarmament and reintegration process. By promoting dialogue and coordination, the event aims to contribute to the stabilization of the region and the socio-economic reintegration of ex-combatants and associated individuals.
Key points
- The workshop was attended by various stakeholders, including administrative, customary, religious, military, and civilian authorities.
- The success of the disarmament and reintegration process depends on the involvement of all stakeholders.
- The process of disarmament and reintegration should be viewed as a structured and comprehensive approach.
