The Plateau State Government and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) have reaffirmed their joint commitment to promoting lasting peace and stability across the state, emphasizing the urgent need to define borders to curb recurring cross-border conflicts.
This was the central message at the Multi-Agency and Multi-Sectoral Roundtable with State and Non-State Actors Towards a Sustainable Peace Architecture in Plateau State, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at Novel Suites, Rayfield, Jos. The dialogue, themed “Unity in Diversity for Peaceful Coexistence in Plateau State,” brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, civil society, traditional institutions, and peacebuilding organizations.
Representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the event, Deputy Governor Her Excellency Ngo Josephine Piyo commended the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue for its enduring partnership in fostering peace and harmony among Plateau’s diverse communities.
“This meeting is timely, especially at a period when our state continues to grapple with security challenges that have affected our growth and unity,” she said. “The Plateau State Government remains committed to restoring lasting peace so that our people can live without fear and sleep in safety.”
Piyo called for urgent action from federal agencies to clearly demarcate Plateau’s borders with neighboring states, noting that the porous nature of current boundaries has fueled insecurity and human trafficking.
“The porous nature of our borders not only poses security challenges but also makes our children vulnerable to trafficking. We therefore call on relevant federal agencies to define and mark our borders to help mitigate cross-border conflicts,” she added.
In his remarks, Dr. Chris Agboha, Country Manager of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) Nigeria, underscored the link between weak border management and the rise of violent crimes, including cattle rustling, land grabbing, kidnapping, and illegal mining.
“Borders are one of the primary indicators of a state’s control over its territory. When they cease to function effectively, different forms of criminality thrive, putting communities at risk,” Agboha said, calling for collaborative efforts in managing diversity and promoting inclusivity as tools for peace.
Professor Chris Kwaja, Special Envoy on Peace and Security to the Plateau State Government, warned of the growing threat posed by misinformation, hate speech, and social media manipulation in fueling conflict. He stressed the need for stronger intergovernmental cooperation and community engagement in addressing insecurity.
Also speaking, Dr. Julie Sanda, Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency (represented by Nantip Joseph), reaffirmed the agency’s continued partnership with HD and other stakeholders, noting that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen Plateau’s peace infrastructure.
Other contributors, including Sam Godongs, National Expert Adviser to HD Nigeria, highlighted the progress of local and zonal peace structures across the state, which are designed to sustain peacebuilding efforts even after donor-funded programs end.
The roundtable which is a 2day event will examine issues of cross-border conflict, diversity management, and inclusive governance, concluded with a collective call for synergy among all stakeholders to build a resilient, united, and peaceful Plateau.
