In many communities across Katsina State, traditional rulers play a central role in resolving disputes related to land, family matters, markets, and communal tensions. However, despite their legitimacy and influence, many of these leaders have historically handled complex conflicts without formal training in legal frameworks, human rights, or structured mediation processes. This gap has sometimes weakened dispute resolution outcomes and limited coordination with formal justice institutions.
Through the SPRiNG Programme, Green Horizon is strengthening the capacity of traditional leaders in the Katsina Emirate to manage conflicts more effectively while building stronger connections between customary and formal justice systems.
Intervention Highlights
The initiative focused on equipping traditional rulers with practical knowledge and skills in Nigerian law, human rights, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), conflict management, and family law. Using a structured three-phase training model, the programme began with a pilot session followed by two step-down training phases to expand learning and reach more community leaders.
To strengthen collaboration between traditional and formal institutions, the project also convened justice-sector roundtables involving representatives from the police, judiciary, and other stakeholders. These sessions created platforms for dialogue, improved understanding of legal procedures, and strengthened coordination in conflict resolution.
To ensure sustainability, the programme introduced a mentorship model, training experienced participants to support ongoing peer learning and the application of mediation skills across communities.
Recognising the important role women play in community mediation, the project also trained wives of traditional rulers to help address sensitive disputes involving women who may feel uncomfortable approaching male leaders directly.
Key Achievements
119 traditional rulers trained across the Katsina Emirate, including District Heads, Village Heads, Ward Heads, and Market Leaders
40 wives of traditional rulers trained in dispute resolution to improve women’s access to justice
20 mentors trained to support ongoing peer learning and capacity building
Justice-sector roundtables established to strengthen collaboration between traditional rulers, police, and the judiciary
Improved coordination with formal justice institutions, including courts, police, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
Impact
The initiative has strengthened the ability of traditional rulers to mediate disputes fairly, transparently, and effectively. By combining traditional authority with contemporary mediation techniques, community leaders are now better equipped to resolve conflicts before they escalate.
The programme has also helped institutionalise collaboration between customary and formal justice systems. Quarterly justice roundtables—supported by the Katsina State judiciary—are now providing an ongoing platform for coordination, accountability, and shared learning among justice actors.
By strengthening both capacity and collaboration, the project is helping ensure that community-level dispute resolution processes are more inclusive, credible, and sustainable.
Read the full case study to learn how SPRiNG and Green Horizon are strengthening community-based conflict resolution in Katsina State.