Experts Validate Toolkits Against Ethnic Stereotyping in Nigeria

On Wednesday, experts convened at the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) headquarters in Abuja to validate anti-ethnic stereotyping profiling toolkits. Joseph Ochogwu, the director of the IPCR, described the toolkit as a significant stride in strengthening peace and security responses in Nigeria.

The initiative aims to mitigate the threats posed by ethnic profiling, which can foster misunderstanding and deepen divisions among communities. Gerald Okafor, director of international conflict prevention and resolution, emphasized the toolkit's importance in addressing the rapid spread of ethnic stereotypes, particularly through traditional and social media platforms.

Saleh Bala, a retired brigadier general and founder of Beacon Security Intelligence Limited, warned that language used in media can shape public perception and influence policy responses, potentially exacerbating social tensions. The meeting brought together representatives from security agencies, armed forces, intelligence institutions, media professionals, academia, civil society organizations, and policymakers to review and strengthen the toolkit before its formal launch.