Jos, Plateau State – 26 November 2024
The Headquarters of the 3 Division, Nigerian Army, played host to a one-day seminar organized by Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence during the harvest and festive season. Titled “Fostering Peaceful Coexistence Towards a Secured and Successful Harvest and Festive Season,” the seminar brought together security officials, religious leaders, and key stakeholders to discuss strategies for maintaining peace in Plateau State.
Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, GOC 3 Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven, opened the seminar by emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in fostering peace during the harvest and festive season. He highlighted the successes of previous engagements, which improved security for farming and herding activities.
The GOC reiterated the commitment of security agencies to both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, such as early warning mechanisms and quick responses to threats. He urged community leaders, youths, and women to collaborate with security forces, stressing that peace is essential for development. He also warned criminals against disrupting the season, promising decisive action.
The seminar featured lectures by notable speakers:
Sheikh Kabir Kasim emphasized unity in diversity and the role of religious and community harmony, condemning greed, tribalism, and bigotry.
Rev. Fr. Boniface Pius highlighted the personal responsibility of individuals in fostering peace and called for understanding among different religious groups. He also advocated for government support in mechanized farming and water protection.
Sheikh Ghazali, Chief Imam of Jos elaborated on strategies for building safe communities, including community engagement, emergency planning, and collaboration with security agencies.
Joseph Lengmang, Former DG Plateau Peace Building Agency emphasized forgiveness, reconciliation, and interfaith dialogue as pillars for peace and unity.
Traditional and religious leaders, including the Gbong Gwom Jos, CAN Chairman, and JNI Chairman, delivered remarks advocating for peace and urged participants to spread the message to their communities.
The Chief of Army Staff Special Scholarship Scheme for Indigent Students 2024 was awarded to Miss Izang Sandra Abi, who received ₦500,000 from Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar.
Rt. Hon. Titus Alams, former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and Senior Special Adviser to Plateau State Governor on Labour Matters represented the Governor of Plateau State. He expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of security agencies, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in fostering stability. Alams highlighted the Governor’s achievements, including the introduction of the ₦70,000 minimum wage, civil service reforms, and improvements in infrastructure and public services.
He attributed the success of recent local government elections to the administration’s commitment to justice and fairness. Stressing the importance of peace for tourism and economic growth, Alams shared personal reflections on community relationships, especially between locals and Fulani, emphasizing mutual respect and coexistence. He reaffirmed the Governor’s dedication to making Plateau State a hub of peace, tourism, and development.
The seminar, attended by high-ranking officials and stakeholders, concluded with a renewed call for unity and collaboration to ensure a peaceful and prosperous festive season. A group photograph marked the end of the event, symbolizing the collective commitment to fostering peace across Plateau State.
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