BY Claire Mom
Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, Japanese ambassador to Nigeria, says his country is committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to create a safe and secure environment for all its citizens.
The ambassador spoke on Tuesday during the inauguration of a project at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) Kaduna.
The project titled ‘Enhancing MLAILPKC’s capacities for effective peace support operations in West Africa’ was executed in collaboration with Japan through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Kazuyoshi said the project will help the Japanese government to make a significant contribution.
The ambassador added that the project will encourage active participation of women who “are not just victims of conflicts” but are “perfect agents for peace”.
“During my visit to Maiduguri on March 10, I witnessed first hand the plight of those impacted in the IDP camp,” Kazuyoshi said.
“Just recently, the Japanese foreign minister, Mrs Kam Kaowa, concluded her very first visit to Nigeria, during which she emphasised the critical importance of peace and security for Nigeria’s continued development and prosperity.”
Kazuyoshi said since inception, MLAILPKC has trained over 100,000 troops and over 2,200 persons on individual peace support operation.
The ambassador said beneficiaries have been drawn from the army, paramilitary organisations, ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), civilians and allied countries.
Sani Muhammad, chief of training at army headquarters, commended UNDP and Japan for sustaining the project over the years.
Muhammad, who was represented by Oluyemi Olatoye, commandant, Nigerian Army School of Infantry, said the project would provide essential skills required by peacekeepers, security personnel, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and select MDAs.
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