By Gloria Ikibah
The Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, His Excellency Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, has said the protection of civilians is a fundamental principle of international law.
The Ambassador stated thus at the graduation of Participants of Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course 37/24, organised by the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme UNDP and the Government of Japan in Abuja.
The envoy who was represented by the Head of Mission, Hiromi Otsuki, said that civilians, especially women and children, are often the most vulnerable victims of armed conflict, often forced to flee their homes, lose loved ones, and face constant threat of violence.
According to him, Japan had been committed to peace and stability in Africa by providing assistance including human resource development, border control support, and assistance for building judicial and administrative systems.
This he said is for the purpose of the consolidation of democracy and strengthening of the rule of law.
“Japan’s commitment to civilian protection is reflected in our financial support for UN peacekeeping operations and other initiatives aimed at protecting civilians.
“We also provide training and capacity-building assistance for countries particularly in post-conflict situations.
“The skills and knowledge that you have gained in this course will be essential as you work to protect civilians in your respective postings and I ask you to continue to develop your skills and knowledge in the area of civilian protection,’’ the Ambassador said.
Member Board of Trustees MLAILPKC, Major General Obidah Ethan(Rtd.) in his remarks said that protecting civilians was not just a moral imperative, but a collective responsibility that required courage and determination.
“It demands that we put the needs of others before our own and that we stand firm in the face of adversity.
“This is a reminder that only through collective and collaborative action and empathy can we strive towards a world where every voice is heard, respected, and protected.
“The overall objective of the CPOC is to develop human capacity to handle challenges that arises in the Protection of Civilians in conflict zones.
“This Course is aimed at equipping participants with knowledge, skills and attitudes required for the performance of CPOC functions in an integrated peace operations environment,’’ he stated.
He therefore urged the participants to impact the knowledge gained from the course in their various formations, units and organisations as well as bring their expertise to bear when called upon to serve in any capacity.
Maj-Gen Ethan strongly urged the participants to give a good account of themselves and apply themselves professionally in the field, bring pride and glory to your organization and the country with every sense of responsibility when the need arises.
“You are the frontline defenders who will shield civilians from the ravages of conflict, prioritize their safety, security, and champion the promotion of human rights as well as dignity in the most challenging of environments.
“Please remember that your role is crucial in upholding the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and dignity, even in the face of adversity,’’ he admonished.
The Commandant of the Centre, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, restated that their expertise was crucial in a world where conflicts and violence has continuously affected the innocent, vulnerable and persons living with disability.
Adedoja said the training recieved was fashioned in line with this Centre of Excellence Mission Statement which is “to deliver realistic training to potential peacekeepers for the multidimensional challenges contemporary peace support operations”.
“You have learned the importance of humanitarian principles, international laws, Causes and Nature of Conflicts in Africa, United Nations Legal Policy Frameworks on Protection of Civilians, Mission Life Cycle and Integrated Assessment Planning.
“You have also learned about Tactical Decision-making process, Mission Analysis and coordination with various stakeholders to ensure the safety of those affected by Conflicts.
“As certified UN-CPOC experts, you are now better equipped to navigate the full spectrum of peacekeeping operations, coordinating, communicating and leading in the pursuit of peace, stability and ultimately ensuring protection of civilians,’’ he said.
The commandant commended the Government of Japan and the UNDP for their enormous commitment towards the successful hosting of the course.
Thr two weeks course had participants drawn from five African countries including Liberia, Cameroon, Guinea Bissau, Ghana and Nigeria of the Police, Paramilitary, Armed Forces, Civil Society Organisations.