By Revd Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles

CCN News Correspondent, Abuja

ABUJA — September 2026: The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) paid a collaborative visit to The Kukah Centre as part of efforts to explore strategic partnership in peace building, civic engagement, leadership development, democratic participation, research and advocacy.

The CCN delegation, led by Rt. Rev. Evans Onyemara, Ph.D., General Secretary of the Council, was received by Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, Ph.D., Executive Director of The Kukah Centre and Head of the National Peace Committee, Secretariat.

The engagement allowed both institutions to exchange perspectives on issues of national importance and consider how their respective experiences and institutional capacities could contribute to peace, good governance, and social development in Nigeria.

Exploring Areas of Mutual Interest

Speaking during the visit, the General Secretary said the engagement reflected CCN’s desire to strengthen strategic relationships with organisations whose work aligns with the Council’s commitment to peace, justice, human dignity and national development.

Among the broad areas identified for possible collaboration were peace building, capacity development for faith leaders, youth and women empowerment, civic education, election observation, leadership development, research and advocacy.

Rev. Fr. Barkindo welcomed the initiative and acknowledged the potential for meaningful institutional cooperation. He indicated that The Kukah Centre would consider the areas discussed and engage the Council further as appropriate.

He also highlighted the importance of capacity building, institutional collaboration, strategic communication and effective documentation in strengthening the impact and sustainability of programmes undertaken by institutions working for the common good.

Strengthening Institutional Communication and Documentation

The meeting further drew attention to the importance of preserving institutional history and properly documenting programmes, activities and achievements.

The discussion emphasized that effective documentation and reporting could strengthen institutional memory, accountability and communication, while also providing credible information for future publications, research and engagement with stakeholders.

Both institutions recognized the value of communicating development and peace building initiatives in a manner that promotes public understanding while maintaining appropriate standards of confidentiality and institutional responsibility.

Civic Engagement and Election Observation

Civic engagement and election observation also featured among the areas identified for possible future cooperation.

CCN shared its experience in election observation, including participation in international observation initiatives, and expressed interest in strengthening its contribution to credible civic and democratic processes in Nigeria.

The parties agreed that further technical discussions could be undertaken at the appropriate institutional level to examine areas of possible cooperation.

Specific operational arrangements and other details relating to any future election-observation initiative remain subject to further consultation, planning and appropriate institutional approval.

Towards Sustainable Collaboration

The collaboration visit concluded with a shared understanding of the need for continued engagement and further consultations on areas of mutual interest.

The proposed areas of follow-up include capacity development, civic engagement, strategic communication, institutional documentation, peace building, research and democratic participation.

For CCN, the engagement forms part of its broader commitment to building constructive partnerships that advance the cause of peace, justice, responsible citizenship, good governance and social development.

The Council expressed optimism that continued dialogue with The Kukah Centre could provide a foundation for a meaningful and sustainable institutional partnership capable of contributing positively to Nigeria’s peace and democratic development.

— CCN NEWS —