A two-day national media engagement is taking place at Destination Hotel, Wuse 2, Abuja, bringing together journalists, civil society organizations, and key stakeholders to strengthen the role of the media in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE).
The event, which runs from September 1–2, 2025, aims to build the capacity of media professionals to report responsibly on sensitive issues, promote peace-driven narratives, and foster collaboration among media, government, and civil society.
Hosted by the PCVE Network, also known as PAVE (Partnership Against Violent Extremism), the forum marks the official launch of the Media in the PCVE Network – a new initiative that seeks to position the media as a proactive partner in promoting peace and security across Nigeria.
Speaking at the opening, Mr. Senator Iroegbu, Media Coordinator for the PCVE Network, emphasized that the media is not just a messenger but a powerful force that shapes public opinion and can influence societal behavior.
“The media is the fourth estate of the realm. It has the power to amplify solutions, highlight early warning signs, and encourage dialogue. We’re not here to teach journalists what they don’t know, but to create a platform where we can share ideas, network, and build a united front in countering violent extremism,” Iroegbu said.
The PCVE Network is a coalition of civil society organizations, private sector actors, and media professionals dedicated to preventing extremism by addressing its root causes and promoting inclusive narratives.
Also addressing the gathering was Ms. Yetunde Adegoke, National Coordinator for the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF), a Geneva-based donor agency that has been working in Nigeria since 2016.
“We’ve funded NGOs across Nigeria to implement community-based PCVE projects. But now, we’re moving from funding individual organizations to supporting broader networks like PAVE. This approach allows us to scale up our impact and ensure sustainability,” Adegoke said.
GCERF is now supporting the establishment of the PCVE Knowledge, Innovation and Resource Hub (KIRH), designed to build long-term institutional capacity in Nigeria to continue this work even after international donors exit.
Adegoke stressed the importance of involving all sectors of society including the private sector, media, and community leaders in addressing the root causes of extremism such as poverty, marginalization, and lack of trust in governance.
“Violent extremism is not just a security issue; it’s a governance issue. It’s about restoring trust, rebuilding the social contract, and creating opportunities. The media plays a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting unity,” she added.
Mr. Jaye Gaskia, Chair of the Steering Committee for the PCVE Hub and PAVE Network, described the media as “the ears and eyes of society,” but emphasized that journalists can do more than just report, they can be part of the solution.
“We want media practitioners to be part of a national Community of Practice a safe space to reflect, share knowledge, and grow. Many solutions already exist, but they’re scattered and underreported. The media can amplify what works and help replicate it across Nigeria,” he said.
Gaskia also highlighted the need for media to hold stakeholders accountable, help bridge the gap between early warning and early response, and promote unity by challenging divisive narratives.
A key theme of the discussion was the importance of national unity and inclusive citizenship. Gaskia called for a shift from identifying people by their state of origin to recognizing their state of residence.
“We can’t have citizens’ participation without citizens. We must dismantle the harmful indigene settler divide. Whether you live in Lagos or Kano, you should enjoy the full rights of citizenship. Media has a role in changing this narrative and fostering national cohesion,” he said.
The two-day event is not just about lectures but interactive roundtables, brainstorming sessions, and the formation of lasting partnerships among participants. The goal is to create a strong, informed media network that works hand-in-hand with other sectors to prevent violence and build a more resilient, united Nigeria.