“Today, we are here to celebrate the triumph of peace in Plateau State,” declared Nanmak D. Bali, President of the Plateau Peace Practitioners Network (PPPN), and The Revd Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam, President and CEO of The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation (TP-MPF), at a joint world press conference held on Saturday, January 4, 2025. The event, which took place at the Taken Headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, was convened to recognize the progress made in restoring peace and to appreciate the collaborative efforts of state and non-state actors in fostering harmony in Plateau State and Nigeria.
Reflecting on Two Decades of Challenges
For over 20 years, Plateau State was plagued by a cycle of violence, including bomb blasts, communal clashes, and violent attacks, often during festive seasons. These periods, intended for joy and celebration, were overshadowed by tragedies that claimed lives, displaced families, and disrupted social cohesion. The insecurity tarnished Plateau’s reputation as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” leaving many citizens traumatized.
“Families once celebrated under the cloud of fear. Visitors avoided the state, and our markets, communities, and livelihoods suffered greatly,” the press statement noted.
A New Dawn: The 2024 Festive Breakthrough
The narrative changed during the Christmas and New Year celebrations of 2024. A peaceful and secure festive season emerged as a significant milestone for the state, with residents celebrating without fear of attacks. Tourists and visitors flocked to Plateau, and markets and communities thrived in an atmosphere of harmony.
“This is a new beginning, a narrative worth celebrating. It is not an accident but a deliberate and coordinated outcome of sustained efforts,” the statement emphasized.
Commendation for State Actors
The Plateau State Government, under Governor Caleb Manassas Mutfwang, received accolades for prioritizing peacebuilding and fostering coexistence as a key element of governance. The governor’s leadership and commitment to peace were described as “result-oriented and commendable.”
Security agencies, including Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), were recognized for their vigilance and strategic interventions. Notably, the arrest of 13 suspected gunrunners in Mangu on Christmas Eve was highlighted as a significant contribution to safeguarding communities.
The Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA), led by Dr. Julie Sanda, was also commended for its proactive engagement in fostering dialogue and reconciliation.
Celebrating Non-State Actors
The role of civil society organizations, religious and traditional leaders, women’s groups, youth organizations, and the media in grassroots peacebuilding efforts was acknowledged. These groups were credited with advocating for peaceful coexistence, mediating in conflicts, and fostering trust among communities.
International and local NGOs were singled out for their contributions to bridging religious divides and empowering communities to resist political manipulation. Their efforts, the statement said, “exemplify the shared responsibility of peacebuilding and the power of collaboration.”
Recommendations for Sustained Peace
While celebrating the milestones, the conference underscored that peacebuilding is a continuous process requiring ongoing efforts. Key recommendations included:
- Investing in Peace Education and Youth Development: The government was urged to provide employment opportunities for young people and invest in education that promotes tolerance and social cohesion.
- Strengthening Security Measures: The use of advanced technology, such as drones, for surveillance and early response to threats was suggested. Community defense mechanisms should also be strengthened to deter attacks.
- Establishing State Police: The conference advocated for state policing to address the inadequacies of the current federal police structure. Legislative backing was recommended to ensure neutrality and prevent abuse of power.
- Inclusive Conflict Resolution: Stakeholders were encouraged to adopt both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to conflict resolution, ensuring inclusivity in addressing the root causes of violence.
- Media’s Role: Journalists were called upon to promote stories of resilience, highlight peacebuilding efforts, and counter divisive narratives that fuel conflict.
Addressing State Police Challenges
In a separate remark, Salis Mohammed Abdulsalam emphasized the urgent need for state police to address Nigeria’s inadequate police-to-population ratio. Citing the United Nations standard of one police officer for every 450 people, he noted that Nigeria’s current ratio falls significantly short.
“To address the challenges, state police must operate with legislative safeguards to ensure neutrality and prevent misuse by political actors,” Abdulsalam stated.
A Call to Action
The press conference ended with a call for collective responsibility in sustaining the gains of peace. Citizens were urged to serve as ambassadors of peace in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
“Let us sustain this legacy of peace and prove that Plateau State can remain a beacon of hope and a model for peaceful coexistence,” the statement concluded.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Plateau State
The Plateau Peace Practitioners Network and The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the peace process. They extended condolences to families who lost loved ones to past violence and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that Plateau State continues to thrive as a peaceful and united community.
The peaceful celebrations of Christmas and New Year in 2024, they noted, serve as proof that peace is both achievable and sustainable when stakeholders work together.
