Operation Safe Haven in Partnership with Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPRI) Organized a one day summit for youth leaders and social media influencers in Plateau state
The summit was targeted at harnessing Youth Social Media Potentials for the Peace Architect and Community Resilience Forum in Plateau State, Southern Kaduna and Nigeria with the Theme; Lasting Peace is Possible, held at Valada Hotel Conference Hall in Jos, on Monday 28th September 2020.
Ambassador Melvin Ejeh, Executive Director of the Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPRI), in his welcoming remark said; Peace remains the most fertile ground on which any meaningful development can grow. also stating that the task of ensuring sustainable peace in our communities is that which involves both state actors and non-state actors.
Ambassador Ejeh noted that the initiative is a collaborative effort between the military as a state actor and GOPRI as a non-state actor towards the restoration and sustenance of peace in Plateau and southern Kaduna.
The Commander Operation Safe Haven, Major General CC Okonkwo called on youths to act responsibly as peace actors in Nigeria. He said peace was a collective responsibility of all citizens as it will be beneficial for all. He further encouraged youths to use social media as a tool for positivity and desist from inciting violence.
Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong who was represented at the Permanent Secretary Securities, Mr. Collenus Shulbel, said that despite the fact that information remains power, youths must note that negative information can be detrimental to the society. Lalong commended the efforts of the security outfits who daily continue to make sacrifices to ensure the peace and safety of the general public. He urged youths to be truthful and reliable when using media platforms to draw positivity and avoid stories that will promote hate and conflict.
There were breakout sessions for Social media actors and influencers which was delivered by a top Social Media Expert and other reputable peace practitioners with key messages on the essentials of youth responsibility in controlling their online and off-line reportage.
The Occasion also celebrated the Plateau state Governor, Simon Bako Lalong, with an award as Captain Of Peace, justice, Equity and Good Governance in Plateau State and Nigeria. The Commander Operation Safe Haven, Major General CC Okonkwo was awarded as an Icon Of Peace, Human Rights and Good Governance. Other security actors were also recognized for their active roles in promoting peace in Nigeria with certificates presented to participants.