The Commander, Headquarters Sector 2, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Edet Effiong, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to strengthening collaboration with the Child Protection and Women Empowerment Initiative (CPWEI) towards promoting safer, more resilient communities in the North East.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Absolom Kandala Acting Assistant Director Army Public RelationsHeadquarters Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI Damaturu said the Commander made this commitment when he received a delegation from CPWEI, led by its Executive Director, Maryam Hassan Gambo and represented by the Partnership Coordinator, Mr Musa Garba, during a courtesy visit to Sector Headquarters on Thursday, 13 August 2026.
Brigadier General Effiong commended CPWEI for its efforts in advancing child protection and women empowerment, noting that the protection of vulnerable members of society remains essential to sustainable peace and security. He stressed the need for continued cooperation between security agencies, civil society organisations and local communities to prevent child abuse, exploitation and neglect, while encouraging timely reporting of suspected violations to appropriate authorities.
The Commander further called for sustained awareness campaigns in schools and communities to strengthen protection mechanisms and promote security consciousness. He noted that effective community engagement and information sharing remain critical to identifying emerging threats, protecting vulnerable persons and enhancing the collective capacity of communities to resist criminal and extremist influences.
Speaking on the role of women in peace and security, Brigadier General Effiong commended CPWEI’s initiatives in skills development, education and entrepreneurship. He encouraged greater participation of women in community decision-making and advocated stronger partnerships among government institutions, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders to advance community resilience. He also underscored the responsibility of men and boys in protecting children, promoting dignity and supporting safe and inclusive communities.
In his response, the CPWEI Partnership Coordinator, Mr Musa Garba, appreciated the Nigerian Army for its continued support and commitment to initiatives that promote child protection and women’s empowerment. He commended the leadership of Brigadier General Effiong for fostering stronger military-civil society relations, noting that such partnerships are vital to building resilient communities and consolidating lasting peace.
The engagement concluded with the signing of the visitors’ book, presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, underscoring the shared commitment of the Nigerian Army and CPWEI to strengthening community protection, resilience and security through sustained civil-military collaboration.
