Social protection key to conflict resolution in Nigeria – UNICEF, IPCR, others

Stakeholders, including UNICEF, Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and others have identified social protection as an important instrument capable of addressing some root causes of social conflict and economic crisis in Nigeria if enabling policies are properly implemented.

This was part of their submissions at the Conference on Social Protection and Economic Uncertainties in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Societies in Abuja on Wednesday.

Director General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochugwu, said studies have shown that social protection is very strategic in uplifting any human society from the shackles of poverty and its associated consequences when it is introduced as a systematic policy instrument and managed properly.

He explained that from 2015, the Federal government saw social protection as a much more viable critical social intervention policies to reach to the vulnerable people, adding that was why social investment and the development of the National Social Register commenced.

“World Bank had provided about $500 million dollar as at 2015 to provide a ground support to the Nigerian government. And the Nigerian government under former President Buhari provided the same back up in terms of priding that same kind of funding for social protection,” he said.

UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Cristine Munduate, said Nigeria has witnessed its share of complex challenges and conflicts in recent years, adding that millions of children in the country are navigating the treacherous waters of economic uncertainty, often with little more than hope to guide them.

She said it is crucial for the country to recognize that in the face of adversity, children and their families continue to show remarkable strength, courage and resilience.

She said, “UNICEF, as a global leader in social protection stands firm in our mission to protect and promote the rights and well being of every child everywhere. Our commitment to Nigeria remain steadfast in our work in this country, is a reflection of the dedication we have to supporting the most vulnerable, particularly in conflict affected regions.”