The Partnership Against Violent Extremism Network has launched a 30-day nationwide civic advocacy campaign aimed at mobilising Nigerians to demand stronger action against insecurity, abductions and violent extremism across the country.
The campaign, which commenced on Wednesday and will run until July 30, is themed, “Protect Nigerian Lives: End Abductions, Strengthen Communities and Stop the Politicisation of Insecurity,” with the slogan, “Nigerian Lives Must Come First.”
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the network said the initiative would galvanise civil society organisations, labour unions, professional bodies, youth and women groups, traditional and religious leaders, media organisations and policymakers to push for reforms that would improve security and strengthen community resilience.
PAVE Network described Nigeria’s security situation as alarming, citing persistent kidnappings, killings, attacks on schools and communities, violent extremism, banditry and organised criminality.
According to the organisation, the worsening crisis demands coordinated civic engagement, responsible governance and far-reaching security reforms beyond public condemnation.
“The current crisis requires more than condemnation. It requires organised civic action, responsible governance, accountable security reforms, protection of vulnerable communities, strengthened local government systems and sustained public engagement,” the statement read.
The network said activities lined up for the campaign include a national petition, media engagements, town hall meetings at national and state levels, youth and women mobilisation, civil society and labour endorsements, and advocacy before State Houses of Assembly on the ongoing constitutional amendment process concerning the establishment of state police.
PAVE, however, cautioned that any constitutional provision creating state police must contain adequate safeguards to prevent political interference, ethnic or religious profiling, abuse of power and human rights violations.
It called for independent oversight mechanisms, accountability measures, professional training for personnel, community trust-building initiatives and stronger protection for vulnerable groups.
The organisation also stressed the importance of local government autonomy, arguing that councils should be empowered to promote early warning systems, grassroots peacebuilding, community safety, service delivery and local development.
According to the network, the campaign will be coordinated through its National Secretariat alongside its state chapters, Youth Against Violent Extremism, Women Against Violent Extremism and Media Against Violent Extremism.
PAVE urged Nigerians, civil society organisations, labour unions, faith-based groups, traditional institutions and the media to support the initiative by endorsing its petition, participating in campaign activities and amplifying its call for improved security across the country.
'
'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
