From Gyang Bere, Jos

Equal Access International said it will continue to build capacity of community stakeholders in Plateau and Benue States to response swiftly in terms of securing Nigerian communities and advocates for women inclusion in peace and security.

The Field Coordinator of Equal Access International in Benue State, Idako Andrew stated this at the end of the three day "Advocacy and Media Engagement Workshop" held at the Chrispan hotel, Jos, Plateau State.

"We brought people from communities in Benue and Plateau States to build their capacity on media and advocacy. We are doing this so that members of the communities as well as members of NAWOJ, FIDA and National Council for Women Society can better advocate for women inclusion in peace and security as parts of securing Nigerian communities.

"We are trying to help communities develop local action plan and when the local actions plans are out, we need people who can advocate for the implementation of this plans. We are working in Guma, Gwe West and Agatu in Benue while in Plateau, we are working in Barkin-Ladi, Riyom and Jos South Local Government Areas."

The Field Coordinator, Plateau State, Mrs Linda Dung said the aimed of the workshop has been achieved inview of the active participation of participants and their contribution towards a successful media engagement and advocacy.

She explained, "We are happy that the three days programme is coming to an end and we have seen so much enthusiasm from the participants who are better equipped with strategic communication skills and advocacy to champion peace and security in their communities."

She noted that the workshop stressed more on advocacy and how to generate media content and how to reach the target audience in trying to secure Nigerian communities.

Mrs Atsember Onyi Grace, a participant from Guma Local Area of Benue State said she has been encouraged and equipped with the requisite knowledge to advocate for issues that will bring development in her community.