My Experience at the HDP Nexus Practitioners Training: A Pathway to Cross-Sector Collaboration for Lasting Impact 

BY DOREEN MENNOM OHO 

TECHNICAL PROGRAMS LEAD

As a development professional working with an organization committed to building sustainable development and resilience in grassroots communities, I had the opportunity to attend the Human Development and Peacebuilding (HDP) Nexus Practitioners Training, a 5-day training organized by ActionAid Nigeria in partnership with Nassarawa State University . This eye-opening training brought together professionals from three key sectors to discuss, learn and strategize on how to best implement the HDP Nexus in Nigeria.

The HDP Nexus, also known as the “New Way of Working,” emphasizes the interrelationship between humanitarian assistance, development initiatives, and peacebuilding efforts, recognizing that these three dimensions reinforce and build upon each other with an eye toward breaking down the silos that often separates them, to encourage collaboration that will address complex problems, and protracted issues more effectively. Given the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces, from climate change to insurgency to unemployment, one cannot overstate the benefits of this integrated approach.

The Importance of HDP Nexus in Nigeria’s Context

Nigeria is no stranger to the triple effects of humanitarian crises, development setbacks, and fragile peace. From conflict in the northeast, communal clashes, the country requires a coordinated approach that addresses these crises comprehensively. The training provided a much-needed platform to unpack how the HDP Nexus can offer durable solutions to these interconnected problems.

One of the highlights of the training was the focus on joint analysis  and planning. We explored how humanitarian actors can partner with development organizations and peacebuilders to better assess the needs of communities. The mobilization sessions were also eye-opening, as they highlighted the need for flexible, multi-year financing that could support long-term development while addressing immediate humanitarian needs.

Key Lessons I Learned

1. Breaking down silos is essential: The HDP-Nexus encourages us to move beyond sectoral divisions. Humanitarian, development, and peace efforts are often viewed as distinct from each other, but the emphasis in this training on how integration can lead to more effective interventions recommends greater coordination at government agencies, civil society organizations and communities to find sustainable solutions.
2. The power of collaboration: One of the most valuable aspects of the training was the emphasis on coordinating different actors. Through the field work exercises and case studies, we explored how collaborative planning and communication leads to more effective and sustainable projects. This spirit of collaboration is something I am eager to bring back to DEAN, where we can build strong partnerships with other stakeholders in Nigeria’s humanitarian, development and peacebuilding sectors.
3. Promoting inclusion and accountability: Sustainable solutions require the participation and involvement of all stakeholders, especially communities. The training emphasized the importance of community-led interventions, where communities are empowered to play an active role in pushing for solutions. This approach promotes accountability and ensures that interventions are highly relevant to grassroots needs.
4. Integrated Approaches to Sustainable Development: I learned the importance of an integrated approach when implementing programs. Whether in climate resilience, education, or governance, assembling the HDP Nexus enables us to address the root causes of vulnerability, ensuring that interventions are not passive but proactive and preventive. For example, in our work on climate change within DEAN Initiative, aligning our interventions with the HDP Nexus means that we can deliver environmentally sustainable efforts sustainability and conflict resolution and community development together.

Moving Forward: Implementing the HDP Nexus at DEAN Initiative

The training not only enhanced my understanding of the HDP Nexus, but also inspired me to explore new ways to incorporate its principles into our programs at DEAN Initiative. I look forward to using the knowledge I have gained to advance our ongoing efforts to address climate change, youth development and governance.

At DEAN Initiative, we are already working on participatory programs that engage communities in sustainable practices. For example, our Open Government Partnership Project has empowered local governments to implement open and accountable governance models, in line with the principles of inclusion and participation that are central to the HDP coalition

Our next step is to establish a framework for multisectoral collaboration, bringing together key actors from the humanitarian, development and peacekeeping sectors. By doing so, we can develop a coordinated response that addresses not only the symptoms but the root causes of community vulnerability.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for All Practitioners

The HDP Nexus training was a transformative experience, pinpointing the importance of a unified approach to Nigerian socio-economic challenges. I encourage all as well as persons working in humanitarianism, development, or peacebuilding space, to ruefully reflect on how they can bring the HDP Nexus in their work. In the means of partnership, and the dismantling of silos, we can impart strength in the communities and fulfilment of peace and development in Nigeria.

As DEAN Initiative’s Programs continue to engage with grassroots communities and advocate for sustainable change, the lessons learned from this training will guide us to drive impactful and equitable initiatives. I am excited about where this journey will take us and I am optimistic about Nigeria’s future progress and peace.