On the occasion of February 12, recognised as the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and When Conducive to Terrorism, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), a prominent Transnational Intergovernmental Organization, has urged collective action to combat the persistent challenge of violent extremism in Nigeria and across Africa.
In an official statement, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, IHRC Ambassador at Large and Head of the Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, stressed the urgent need for a unified approach to address this pervasive issue. He highlighted the multifaceted challenges contributing to violent extremism, including social inequality, unemployment, poverty, and political instability. According to Ambassador Hezekiah, addressing these root causes is fundamental to fostering social cohesion, economic development, and effective governance.
“The IHRC remains unwavering in its commitment to preventing violent extremism and advancing peace, security, and human rights through collaborative efforts,” said Ambassador Hezekiah. “We believe that by working alongside governments, civil society organisations, local communities, and international partners, we can counter the appeal of extremist ideologies and their destructive impacts.”
The statement further underscored the critical role of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, civil society groups, the private sector, and individuals, in collectively devising and implementing comprehensive strategies to curb violent extremism. Ambassador Hezekiah called on all parties to contribute actively, noting that cooperation across sectors is vital to achieving sustainable peace and stability.
Addressing Root Causes and Strengthening Resilience
Ambassador Hezekiah emphasised that tackling violent extremism requires a holistic approach. Economic empowerment initiatives, particularly for vulnerable groups such as youth and women, can serve as a critical tool in mitigating the socio-economic disparities that extremist groups often exploit. Additionally, strengthening educational opportunities and promoting community engagement can foster resilience against radical ideologies.
IHRC’s Role and Collaborative Efforts
The IHRC has been actively involved in promoting dialogue, capacity building, and strategic partnerships aimed at reducing violent extremism in Nigeria and Africa. By engaging with local communities, the IHRC ensures that solutions are rooted in the specific cultural and socio-economic contexts of the affected regions.
The Commission also works closely with international partners to align its initiatives with global efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of shared responsibility in addressing a challenge that transcends national borders.
Call to Action
The IHRC calls upon all stakeholders to join forces in the fight against violent extremism. Governments must prioritise policy frameworks that address the root causes of extremism, while civil society organisations play a pivotal role in implementing grassroots initiatives. The private sector can contribute through corporate social responsibility programs, and individuals are encouraged to engage in community-based actions that promote peace and inclusivity.
By working together, we can build a future where peace and security prevail, ensuring that the destructive influence of violent extremism is diminished. The IHRC reaffirms its dedication to this cause and stands ready to partner with all who share this vision.
Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria
My commitment as a volunteer if given the opportunity is to prevent violent extremism in Nigeria & Africa by advancing peace, security & human rights through collaborative efforts within the framework of IHRC programs and as a volunteer in publishing press activities on websites and social media networks, thereby assists in improving social inequality, unemployment, poverty eradication and improving political instability which will results in economic development, social cohesion and effective governance.
আমার স্বেচ্ছাসেবক প্রতিশ্রুতি
আমি বিশ্বাস করি, একজন সচেতন নাগরিক হিসেবে সমাজে শান্তি ও মানবতার পক্ষে কাজ করাটা শুধু দায়িত্ব নয়, বরং একটি নৈতিক কর্তব্য। সেই ভাবনা থেকেই আমি প্রতিশ্রুতি দিচ্ছি, সুযোগ পেলে আমি নাইজেরিয়া ও আফ্রিকার বিভিন্ন অঞ্চলে সহিংসতা ও চরমপন্থা প্রতিরোধে ভূমিকা রাখতে চাই।
আমি আন্তর্জাতিক মানবাধিকার কাউন্সিল (IHRC)-এর আওতায় শান্তি, নিরাপত্তা ও মানবাধিকারের পক্ষে কাজ করব—সহযোগিতার মাধ্যমে। পাশাপাশি, ওয়েবসাইট ও সামাজিক যোগাযোগমাধ্যমে সচেতনতা তৈরির কাজে অংশ নেব, যাতে সমাজের বৈষম্য, দারিদ্র্য, বেকারত্ব এবং রাজনৈতিক অস্থিরতার মতো সমস্যা মোকাবিলা করা যায়।
আমি বিশ্বাস করি, এ ধরনের কাজ শুধু একজন মানুষের নয়, সমাজের সার্বিক উন্নয়নের পথে সহায়ক হতে পারে। যদি এই পথ চলায় আমি কারও উপকারে আসতে পারি, সেটাই হবে আমার স্বেচ্ছাসেবী জীবনের সবচেয়ে বড় অর্জন।
My Volunteer Commitment
I believe that standing for peace and humanity is not just a responsibility, but a moral duty of every conscious individual. With this belief, I pledge that, if given the opportunity, I will work to prevent violent extremism in Nigeria and other parts of Africa.
Within the framework of the International Human Rights Council (IHRC), I am ready to engage in collective efforts to promote peace, security, and human rights. Additionally, I will participate in awareness-raising activities through websites and social media platforms to help address social inequality, unemployment, poverty, and political instability.
I sincerely believe that such efforts can benefit not just individuals but contribute to the overall progress of society. If I can make even a small positive impact in someone’s life through this journey, that will be the greatest achievement of my life as a volunteer.
Activism thrives on unity, resilience, and awareness. Building a strong network of capable individuals ensures that the fight against human rights violations is strategic and impactful. Keep pushing forward—solidarity is key!
I fully support this vision. Collaboration is key to achieving lasting peace and security. Together, we can counter violent extremism and build a safer world for all. Let’s keep pushing forward with dedication and unity.
My Volunteer Commitment
I believe that standing for peace and humanity is not just a responsibility, but a moral duty of every conscious individual. With that belief, I commit myself to work—if given the opportunity—to help prevent violent extremism in Nigeria and across other parts of Africa.
Within the framework of the International Human Rights Council (IHRC), I am ready to contribute to efforts that promote peace, security, and human rights through cooperation and collective action. I will also support awareness-building activities through websites and social media platforms, aiming to address issues like social inequality, unemployment, poverty, and political instability.
I truly believe that such work not only helps individuals, but also contributes to the overall progress of society. If I can make even a small positive difference in someone’s life through these efforts, that will be the greatest achievement of my journey as a volunteer.