The Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Ibrahim Ali has said he was confident youths in Plateau state would take the world by surprise if they take their physical fitness seriously and ensure a peaceful environment for the establishment of critical infrastructure for societal and personal development. The Commander made the statement today 27 November 2021 during the 15 Kilometer Peace and Unity Marathon Competition organised by Operation SAFE HAVEN for youths in Forward Operating Base (FOB) Shendam, comprising Langtang North, South and Shendam local government areas of the State.

The Commander represented by the Deputy Commander OPSH, DCP Mohammad Rabiu, assured that the competition would foster unity among people and open the participants to new opportunities in the enhancement of their potential. He called on the youths to distance themselves from activities that could destroy their future and take the lead in ensuring peaceful co-existence for meaningful development of the state. The commander maintained that OPSH would continue to explore every positive avenue to achieving peace in the area.

Major General Ali appreciated the efforts of critical stakeholders in sensitising the people especially youths on the need to eschew violence and embrace peace permanently. He further said the competition would enhance robust civil/military relation in order to gain the confidence of host communities in the actualization of Operation SAFE HAVEN mandates.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Representative of Puntchl II of Mikang, Barrister Donald Dajen and Deputy Chairman Shendam local government area, Hon Willian Titlong noted that the marathon competition provided avenue to search for talented youths who could bring glory to the state and the country at large. They reiterated the commitment of the local councils and their traditional leadership to continually interact with security forces to achieve the desired peace in the FOB.

Earlier in his opening address, the Commander Forward Operating Base Shendam, Lt Colonel Jonathan Azi, disclosed that the marathon competition was organised to encourage physical fitness, promote peaceful living and friendliness among diverse ethnic and religious groups in the area.

High point of the event was the presentation of medals and cheques to winners of the marathon competition.

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Be Prepared to Take the World by Storm, Commander Operation Safe Haven Tells Plateau Youth