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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Kaduna State chapter of the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Network (PAVE Network) has cautioned against overreliance on military solutions in addressing insecurity, insisting that sustainable peace can only be achieved through evidence-based, community-led interventions.
The group made this position known at a press conference in Kaduna, where its chairperson and coordinator, Eric John, reviewed the state of violent extremism in Kaduna and the wider North-West and outlined ongoing non-kinetic efforts to address the challenge.
John said Kaduna’s security situation remains complex due to its strategic location, long-standing communal tensions, farmer-herder conflicts and the spill-over of armed banditry from neighbouring states. He noted that extremist and criminal groups continue to exploit forested areas, porous borders and socio-economic vulnerabilities, particularly youth unemployment.
While acknowledging ongoing security operations, John stressed that violent extremism cannot be defeated by force alone. According to him, kinetic approaches, if not complemented by prevention, dialogue and development-focused strategies, risk addressing symptoms rather than root causes.
“Our focus is on what works in the long term: early warning, early response, community trust and inclusive development.”
He explained that the PAVE Network has prioritised capacity building and dialogue across Kaduna and the North-West, bringing together government institutions, security agencies, traditional leaders, women and youth groups to co-create practical State and Local Action Plans on PCVE. He said these engagements have helped communities articulate their own vulnerabilities and prevention priorities.
John also highlighted community resilience campaigns carried out in several localities, which he said have strengthened peace education, tolerance messaging and local networks that counter extremist narratives at the grassroots.
Responding to questions on reported foreign military involvement and airstrikes, John urged caution, warning that speculation and misinformation could further inflame tensions and undermine trust between citizens and authorities.
“We don’t want speculation. We want evidence-based approaches. Our work is about prevention from the community upward, not assumptions driven by fear or rumours.”
He added that peace and security are collective responsibilities, calling on residents to remain vigilant, share credible information with relevant authorities and resist narratives that promote violence or division.
The PAVE coordinator also urged the Kaduna State Government to deepen ownership of PCVE processes by embedding them into planning and budgeting frameworks, while encouraging security agencies to strengthen community engagement and uphold human rights.
According to him, lasting peace in Kaduna and the North-West will depend not just on military strength, but on how well communities are empowered, institutions coordinated and citizens included in shaping solutions.
“Peace and resilience are not just government responsibilities. They reflect who we are as communities,” he said.
