Impact of taking Women, Peace and Security to the airwaves in Imo State

For many citizens, the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda remains an unfamiliar concept. A phone-in radio programme in Imo State is helping to change that by taking the conversation directly to the public.

On April 21 & 28, and May 7 2026 respectively, the Women, Peace and Security State Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Monitoring Committee (WPS-SMIMC) took to Toast Radio FM 90.3, Ozisa FM and Owerri, for a discussion on “What is the WPS Agenda and Why Is It Important for Imo Citizens?” Representing the Committee, Barrister Chetachi Udeh and Mr. Ugochukwu Anozie, Kenneth Amogu and Barr Augusta Nnabuihe, Udocukwu Chukwu and Ogechi Okehielam at the different times, explained the WPS agenda, rooted in UN Security Council Resolution 1325, and its focus on women’s participation, protection, conflict prevention, and relief and recovery.

The discussion brought the global agenda closer to home, connecting it to everyday realities of insecurity, conflict and social tensions in Imo communities.

The presenters emphasized that peace and security are not solely the responsibility of government or security agencies. Women, men, young people, traditional leaders and other citizens all have roles to play in preventing conflict and building resilient communities.

The programme also challenged the perception that peacebuilding is primarily a male domain. It highlighted the importance of women’s participation in decision-making, early warning, conflict prevention and resolution, while emphasizing the role of men as allies in advancing gender equality and peace. The conversation generated public interest, with three listeners calling in to ask questions and share contributions, including questions around implementation, male allyship and accountability.

For WPS-SMIMC, the broadcast marked an important step in bringing the WPS agenda beyond policy circles and into public conversation. It also revealed the need for sustained public sensitization, as WPS remains relatively new to many citizens. By taking the conversation to the airwaves, the Committee is helping citizens understand that women’s participation in peace and security is not simply a women’s issue, it is a community issue and a shared responsibility.

The radio engagement is expected to be part of a continuing public-awareness effort to build wider understanding and support for a more inclusive, gender-responsive approach to peace and security in Imo State.