Search for Common Ground
In a bid to combat human rights violations and enhance community security in the Niger Delta, Search for Common Ground Nigeria has launched a four-day capacity-building programme for private security personnel in the region.
The training, which started on March 25, 2025, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, aims to equip security actors with the necessary ethical, legal, and operational knowledge to uphold human rights standards while addressing violence and criminality in host communities.
Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights
Tagged “Capacity Building for Private Security Actors on Voluntary Principles,” the programme brings together participants from various private security organizations across all eight local government areas in Bayelsa State. The training focuses on:
- Ethical security practices
- Nonviolent conflict resolution
- Community-driven action plans to prevent human rights abuses
- Corporate accountability and advocacy strategies
Read also: SPECIAL REPORT-As the West Backs Nigeria’s War on Insurgents, it Backs Off on Human Rights
Expanding Human Rights Training to Delta and Rivers States
The initiative is not limited to Bayelsa but extends to Delta and Rivers States, reinforcing efforts to curb human rights violations in oil-producing communities. Participants will be introduced to advocacy techniques, early warning systems, and security tools that enhance resident protection.
The Role of NGOs in Promoting Ethical Security Practices
A key module in the training highlights the critical role of NGOs in shaping best practices in security and human rights:
“NGOs play a pivotal role in developing tools and guidance notes that enhance the implementation of ethical security measures. Their expertise fosters long-term positive impacts on communities.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Kengkeng Ati, Capacity Building and Training Officer at Search for Common Ground Nigeria, emphasized the programme’s importance in instilling ethical standards among private security personnel, especially those deployed to oil installations.
“This training is designed to reinforce ethical security principles, empower security actors with fresh knowledge, and align them with human rights-centered security approaches that promote peace and collaboration in host communities.” — Kengkeng Ati.
Testimonials from Participants: Advocacy and Awareness
Mr. Jimmy Calmday, a community leader from Odioma, Brass Local Government Area, described the training as transformative, shedding light on human rights violations and corporate accountability.
“Awareness is crucial because one must first understand their rights before they can claim them. This training has broadened my perspective on how to engage with companies operating in our communities while advocating for our rights more effectively.” — Jimmy Calmday
Fostering Ethical Security and Human Rights in the Niger Delta
As the training expands across the Niger Delta, Search for Common Ground Nigeria remains committed to:
- Strengthening human rights protections
- Fostering peace and security
- Empowering private security personnel to uphold ethical standards
This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring that security actors in Nigeria’s oil-rich regions operate within legal frameworks while promoting community engagement and nonviolent conflict resolution.
