December 11, (THEWILL) — The Conference of Autochthonous Ethnic Nationalities Community Development Associations (CONAECDA) has called on the United States to assist Nigeria in developing a robust Community-Based Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) system to address the country’s growing security challenges.
A statement signed by Stephen Sarki Musa, the Media Officer for the association, disclosed that the appeal was made at the conclusion of its 12th Annual Conference, held from December 4–7, 2025, in Jos, Plateau State.
Representing over 400 ethnic nationalities in the Middle Belt, CONAECDA urged the U.S. to ensure that Nigerian state governments implement recommendations from the U.S. Under Secretary of State on strengthening community security frameworks.
A communiqué issued and signed by the Conference’s President, Danladi Jeji and Secretary, Suleman D. Sukukum, also directed its secretariat to reinforce community-based early warning and response initiatives in collaboration with local governments and communities.
The group emphasised that communities must hold those tasked with providing security accountable. It further called on the government to prioritise the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and protection of displaced communities, while removing individuals found to be associated with terrorism.
CONAECDA also appealed to the international community to support Nigeria in combating insecurity and to be accountable for their actions, expressing support for legitimate interventions aimed at halting the killings of innocent Nigerians. However, the association warned against any measures that could worsen the security situation or lead to further loss of lives.
Meanwhile, the group has formally endorsed the zoning of the Presidency to the Southern region in 2027, in line with its commitment to the principle of power rotation. This is as they suggested that the Presidency should rotate to either the North East or North Central in 2031.
Delegates also commended the CONAECDA secretariat for its engagement with governments at all levels and pledged to continue promoting democracy and transparent elections through voter education, town hall meetings, and election monitoring.
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