The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has called on cabinet members and heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritize conflict-sensitive approaches in policy formulation and implementation. Speaking at the opening of a two-day Conflict Sensitivity Workshop and Retreat in Jos, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of inclusive policies that foster a sense of belonging for Plateau’s diverse population.
“As we handle our daily responsibilities, let’s remember we’re dealing with human lives, and our actions or inactions shape public perception of this government,” Mutfwang said. The workshop, hosted by the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency (PPBA) in collaboration with the Institute for Integrated Transitions (IFIT), Middle Belt Brain Trust (MBBT), and the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), aimed to equip officials with tools to promote peace through government operations.
Governor Mutfwang noted that his administration has minimized conflicts through dialogue, collaboration, and a clear understanding of Plateau’s unique cultural and religious landscape. “One way to minimize conflict is dialogue,” he explained. “You must be fair, just, and equitable. It’s essential to understand the context in which we operate.”
The governor urged workshop participants to carefully consider policy impacts to prevent unintended consequences that could harm peace and security, stressing the importance of Plateau’s multi-ethnic, multi-religious makeup.
Retired Lt. Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, Chairman of the Middle Belt Brain Trust, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the close relationship between peace, security, and development. He emphasized that the training would help officials apply conflict sensitivity in their roles.
Dr. Julie Sanda, Director General of the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency, noted the cross-cutting nature of peace and conflict, stating that the workshop aimed to ensure conflict-sensitive practices are mainstreamed at all government levels. “Globally, conflict sensitivity began with the ‘do-no-harm’ principle in humanitarian interventions, yet it remains underutilized in governance,” Dr. Sanda explained.
Chris Philips, representing the FCDO, affirmed the organization’s commitment to Plateau State’s development goals, expressing hope that participants would apply their training in policy formulation and implementation.
The two-day workshop convened Commissioners, Directors General, General Managers, and other senior officials, encouraging a collaborative approach to peaceful governance in Plateau State.
