Sokoto PCVE Chair warns that military action alone cannot end extremism, urging community resilience and inclusive governance

Sokoto State Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Committee Chairman, Muhammad Suraju, has warned that military operations alone cannot end violent extremism in Nigeria’s Northwest, urging inclusive governance and economic empowerment, Sokoto, 30 December 2025.

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Suraju said extremist groups, including Lakurawa, exploit governance gaps and economic hardship to recruit young people and coerce communities into violent activities, particularly in border areas.

The chairman highlighted that insecurity has deepened poverty, disrupted livelihoods and weakened trust between citizens and authorities.

He announced that the committee has made measurable progress through coordinated preventive efforts, including workshops involving government officials, traditional leaders, youth groups and civil society organisations.

Community-led dialogues have produced local action plans focused on education, early warning systems and violence prevention.

Suraju noted that political support has improved, with legislators and security leaders committing to PCVE funding and implementation.

Community campaigns promoting peace education, tolerance and conflict awareness have strengthened local trust and resilience, he added.

Despite these gains, the chairman acknowledged ongoing challenges, including armed group activity, youth unemployment, economic hardship and weak intelligence coordination in some local governments.

Suraju stressed that these obstacles present opportunities to break the cycle of violence through youth investment and governance reform.

“Peace is not the responsibility of government alone. It is the duty of every citizen. Together, we can protect our communities and build a future founded on peace, dignity and opportunity,” Suraju said.

The Sokoto PCVE Committee urged residents to reject extremist narratives and actively support inclusion and resilience campaigns.

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Youth and women’s groups were encouraged to lead efforts, while local authorities were called upon to embed PCVE priorities into state and local budgets.