Daud Olatunji
The Chairperson of the Steering Committee of the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE), Mr. Jaye Gaskia, has called for a stronger partnership between the media and civil society organisations in combating violent extremism in Nigeria, warning that the failure to act collaboratively continues to worsen insecurity across the country.
Gaskia made the call on Monday in Abuja during the Media Capacity Building Roundtable, Dialogue, and the official flag-off of the Media in PCVE Network (MAVE), also known as Media Against Violent Extremism.
The event, which brought together journalists, editors, and civil society actors, also featured a two-day workshop on strengthening media roles in preventing violent extremism (PVE).
According to him, the media cannot be sidelined in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism because of its strategic role as both a watchdog and an early warning system for society.
“The media is not only the fourth estate of the realm, holding government accountable, but also uniquely positioned in crisis reporting,” Gaskia said.
“Journalists are on the frontline, serving as a bridge between communities, government, and stakeholders. By shedding light on early warning signs, the media can compel timely responses and prevent conflicts from escalating.”
He lamented that despite more than a decade of effort, Nigeria continues to struggle with violent extremism due to weak collaboration, poor governance, and inadequate early response mechanisms.
Gaskia stressed that violent extremism should not be treated as a purely military challenge, adding that it requires a multi-dimensional, community-driven, and development-oriented approach.
“Conflict is often a manifestation of bad governance. Preventing violent extremism is not about a soft approach; it is about development, inclusion, and human security,” he added.
He revealed that ongoing efforts include a review of the national policing framework to strengthen community resilience, with local governments, women, and youths expected to play central roles.
Listing seven pillars of human security — political, economic, health, environmental, social, personal, and community — Gaskia said a “national security with a human face” is needed to effectively address extremism.
He also urged the private sector and philanthropists to commit at least 10 per cent of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) budgets to peace, security, and PVE initiatives, particularly in building youth capacity, supporting livelihoods, and promoting digital literacy.
On funding, he noted that global partners such as ActionAid Nigeria had been instrumental, but stressed that long-term success would depend on Nigerian governments at all levels becoming the “pillars of prevention”.
Earlier, the convener of the roundtable, Senator Iroegbu, said the media must embrace its responsibility in shaping narratives, promoting peace, and fostering social cohesion.
“This formal launch of the Media in PCVE Network begins a sustainable framework for collaboration among journalists, editors, and media houses.”
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
