A multi-faceted drive to enlighten the Nigerian public on the need to embrace peaceful coexistence has been embarked upon by Positive Voices Campaign Project (PVCP) in Kaduna.
Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna over the weekend, PVCP Project Manager, Innocent Yamusa explained that the pilot project would be on simultaneously in five key states of Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau and Yobe.
"The urgent need in creating awareness; gaining acceptance and sustaining the understanding amongst the target audience groups especially the youth has become essential.
"This is to say that they will not only participate, but imbibe the messages and narratives, and then become role models for other youths in their various localities," he said.
He explained that to further publicized PVCP, the campaign would be taken to all the states of the federation.
In her remarks, the CEO of Microdevelopment Consulting Limited (MDCL), Furera Isma Jumare said that the project which is being managed by her company, is funded by the Department For International Development (DFID), through the Nigerian Reconciliation and Stability Programme (NRSP).
She explained that two Positive Voices (PVs) have been picked from Kaduna state to serve as role models and opinion moulders of other youths that they would be mentoring.
Jumare pointed out that they were carefully selected without sentiments or bias, but based on competence out of several shortlisted hopefuls.
"Those that were not selected are not left out, but would also work with us and contribute towards the success of the PVCP," she said.
While responding to questions, the PVCP Kaduna State Coordinator, Obafunso Rahmon Agboola said that they are adopting a soft approach towards building positive bridges in the country between diverse religious and ethnic groups.
"We selected two PVs from Kaduna State. One from Kujama in Chikun LGA and the second is from Kadarko in Kaura LGA," he announced.
He said the PVs have already been trained on communication skills and other relevant skills they would be requiring to successfully carry out their mandates.
One of the PVs, Mohammed Akilu Kujama from Chikun LGA said that already they are recording successes at various fora they have organised.
"We have Hausa-Fulani, Gbagyis, Jabas and other ethnic groups that attend our gatherings and make meaningful contributions.
"The youth play important roles in peaceful coexistence. We are using them to build up more positive voices," he said.
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