By Haruna Aliyu – Birnin Kebbi

Over 200 stakeholders gathered in Kebbi for an interactive session organized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under its State2State unit, focused on conflict management and mitigation.

The session, led by team leader Mr. Usman Falaye, aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge on managing conflicts and minimizing their impact on survivors. According to Falaye, the session also sought to expand participants’ understanding of the root causes of conflicts, strategies for managing them, and ways to prevent escalation into violence.

Falaye emphasized that conflict often arises when individuals or groups with differing interests co-exist, and that avoiding conflicts requires finding common ground or shifting perspectives. He also identified government policies—such as the disenfranchisement of marginalized groups, including women and persons with disabilities—and costly electoral nomination fees as factors that fuel conflict.

Another critical issue discussed was the spread of fake information, which often exacerbates tensions and leads to violence. Participants were urged to avoid disseminating inaccurate data, particularly on sensitive issues at home or in the workplace.

USAID’s core mandate, according to Falaye, is to prevent conflict, but when it does occur, the agency works to manage and mitigate it, ensuring that survivors receive appropriate social interventions to help them feel a sense of belonging.

The interactive session, held at the State2State office in Birnin Kebbi, will conclude on Tuesday, with participants gaining valuable insights into effective conflict management strategies. Government officials and USAID partners attended the event, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing conflict-related challenges.