By Yop Pam
The issue of security and governance in Plateau State should not be politicized, but rather addressed collaboratively to pave the way for peace and the well-being of all citizens.
Special Envoy to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Peace and Security, Professor CHRIS KWAJA made the assertion at a stakeholders meeting held in Jos.
The Programme which brought together representatives of security agencies, Civil Society Organisations, the media and community leaders among others was organized by the Plateau State Peace Building Agency in collaboration with Plateau Peace Practitioners Network, under the theme ‘’Strengthening Community Resilience for Sustainable peace’’ and the programme was supported by SPRiNG through the Foreign Common Wealth and Development Office.
Professor Kwaja highlighted key factors hindering peace in the state and emphasized the importance of putting aside differences and working together towards a peaceful society.
The Director General of Plateau State Peace Building Agency, Dr. Julie Sanda, stated that the meeting was convened to chart a path towards achieving sustainable peace in the state.
Dr. Sanda also called on the State House of Assembly to back the initiative with legislative support.
The Regional Programme Manager, SPRiNG, Mr. Mujidang Sitdang explained that SPRiNG is a four-year program aimed at addressing conflict issues in four states through stakeholder collaboration.
He added that SPRiNG delivered grants to some people in Bassa, Jos North and Barkin Ladi Local Government areas in its pilot programme.
Adviser to the British High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr. Graham Gass assured that Nigeria will continue to be a strategic partner to the United Kingdom and condoled people of the state over killings in some communities.
In a remark, Representative of the Director General, Research, Planning and Documentation, Government House, Mr. Ceaser Payi pledged government’s commitment towards tackling issue hampering peace in the state.
In a Keynote address titled The Legislature and Security provisioning: Bridging the gap between Community and security institutions, The state house of Assembly Committee Chairman on Labour and Security, Joseph Bukar, Represented by Daniel Nanbol stressed the importance of unity, and community involvement at all levels to achieve sustainable peace and bridge existing gaps.
Earlier, The President, Plateau Peace Practitioners Network, Mr. NANMAK BALI thanked their partners for their support and called for a collaborative approach for lasting peace in the state.
Edited by Karen keyen
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