Dr. Julie Sanda, Director-General of the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency (PPBA), addressed the changing nature of conflict in Plateau State during a press briefing held today at the agency’s office in Jos. She highlighted a significant shift from what used to be referred to as “crises” to a more troubling pattern of “attacks.”
“Previously, we talked about conflicts erupting into violence, usually between communities. Now, what we are hearing more frequently is attacks—people being attacked at night, homes destroyed, and entire communities driven away from their lands,” Dr. Sanda noted, emphasizing the need for a different approach to addressing the situation.
Dr. Sanda explained that the changing dynamics of violence in Plateau require a comprehensive assessment to inform new strategies. The PPBA is currently conducting a strategic conflict assessment to update its existing plan. “The dynamics are changing, and we need to understand the situation thoroughly to adjust our strategies accordingly,” she said.
While the PPBA focuses on peacebuilding efforts, Dr. Sanda noted that some of the issues being faced, particularly the increasing criminality and land grabbing, go beyond the agency’s scope. “When it comes to criminality, it’s more of a law and order issue, not strictly peacebuilding. However, we continue to work closely with communities affected by these attacks, providing psychosocial support and promoting social cohesion,” she stated.
Dr. Sanda also highlighted the agency’s collaboration with security agencies. “We’ve strengthened our partnership with the security architecture in the state, ensuring quick responses to incidents and fostering better community-security relations,” she said. This cooperation has included early response systems and the deployment of Agro Rangers to protect farming communities and herders.
Looking ahead, Dr. Sanda expressed optimism about the ongoing strategic review. “Once the assessment is completed, we will have a clearer understanding and can fully adjust our strategies. However, we continue to engage communities and encourage dialogue as a means of resolving conflicts non-violently,” she said.
The PPBA is working with multiple stakeholders, including Operation Safe Haven and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, to ensure peace and stability, particularly as the state moves into the critical harvest season. Despite setbacks caused by inconsistent rainfall, efforts are ongoing to ensure that both farmers and herders can work safely.
Dr. Sanda concluded by emphasizing the importance of dialogue and community engagement in addressing the underlying issues driving violence in Plateau. “We cannot resolve conflicts through violence. There are better ways of managing disagreements, and we are seeing results from these efforts in some communities,” she said, sharing an example of a peace gesture between former adversaries in Mangu after a recent engagement.
The Plateau Peacebuilding Agency (PPBA) remains committed to fostering peace and building community resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
