To increase the stability of conflict-affected communities in Nigeria.

WHY USAID/OTI IS IN NIGERIA

Nigeria is one of the United States’ strategic allies in sub-Saharan Africa, where the U.S. Government supports Nigerian efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote good governance, counter corruption, and improve security. Despite a successful democratic transition of power in 2015, Nigeria’s structural problems increasingly manifest in violent conflicts across the country, including the rise of violent extremist organizations, criminal gangs, and intercommunal violence. Over the past year, Nigeria witnessed deteriorating security and brazen attacks against civilians in the Middle Belt region. USAID/OTI programming helps communities affected by violence participate in the recovery of their towns and villages and work towards a more inclusive and secure future. Reducing violence and mediating conflict are crucial in identifying durable solutions for Nigeria’s intractable security problems.

USAID/OTI’S ROLE IN NIGERIA

USAID/OTI’s Nigeria Early Recovery Initiative (NERI) strengthens community resilience to conflict and supports conflict prevention mechanisms by: 

• Addressing community-identified priorities to build individual and community resiliency against conflict and violence; and 

• Strengthening the ability of vulnerable individuals and communities to represent their interests and promote peaceful solutions to conflict.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• USAID/OTI supports neighborhood safety teams in the Kajuru and Jema’a Local Government Areas in improving their capabilities to monitor risks and promote peace and stability in their communities. Dedicated volunteers serve on these teams to provide a safety net for their communities by monitoring suspicious activities, collecting information, and coordinating with relevant authorities to prevent crime and violence. 

• USAID/OTI provides the volunteer teams with basic early warning trainings and critical equipment such as flashlights, security whistles, rain gear, wrist watches, and portable radios to improve their effectiveness.