We held a five day conflict resolution and peace building workshop in Katsina during 2005. This was the first ever training event of its kind and the active engagement of over 40 participants from teachers, local government officials, religious leaders, women advocates, students, journalists and other partners reflects the necessity for this kind of debate and discussion. The workshop looked at exploring peace-building, negotiation, mediation, conflict management, communication and advocacy. Many who came knew little about formal conflict resolution terms, its concepts, causes and impact and thus this training provided a real opportunity for people to discuss the processes of conflict escalation and forms of third party intervention.

These workshops were replicated with 30 leaders of religious groups in November 2005 and 30 members of the media who cover all 3 states. As a consequence, teachers attending the sessions have adapted the programme and materials for use in local schools. Furthermore a sub group has been formed known as the ‘Peace Network and Early warning group’ which is a pro-active response where members look at addressing local issues in the context of conflict resolution methods.