In its determination to strengthen Civil-Military relations by integrating human rights principles in Military operations in Nigeria, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in collaboration with the Center for Civilian in Conflict (CIVIC), has unveiled a technologically enhanced E-learning Application to members of the Armed Forces and other Security Agencies to help them better understand the behaviour of civilians during conflict situation.
The APP which is aimed at enhancing a more cordial relationship between the Military and Civilian population in conflict situations was launched with the technical support provided by the Center for Civilians in Conflict CIVIC.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Commission Tony Ojukwu SAN noted that the increasing insecurity occasioned by banditry, terrorism, and insurgency in the Country has necessitated Military intervention, thereby taking them out of their normal schedule of defending the territorial integrity of the Nation. This development informed the need to come up with policies that will protect civilians during conflict situations.
The NHRC Boss said the idea behind the APP which could be used via telephone or other communication devices is aimed not only at helping the Military know the best way of dealing with civilians in distress but to equally enable them to understand how Civilians behave during conflict situations.
Dr. Benson Oluogbo, while also speaking at the event added that the APP is aimed at showing how Civilians encounter conflicts and how the situation can be managed effectively by the Military.
He lauded the Commission’s efforts in the actualisation of its mandate of protection, promotion, and enforcement of human rights, citing numerous achievements recorded by the Commission.
As an oversight agency, staff of the Commission were charged to acquaint themselves with the APP, as they may find themselves in situations where they will need to deal with related issues when they arise.
