In a decisive step towards fostering sustainable peace on the Plateau, Headquarters 3 Division (3 Div) and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) convened an expanded seminar aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence among diverse communities within the state. Held on January 22, 2025, at the 3 Div Auditorium in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, the seminar brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, security heads, traditional rulers, and community leaders from various local government areas, to discuss strategies for maintaining harmony in Plateau State.

The seminar, themed Consolidation on Security Gains for a Harmonious Co-existence in 2025, was marked by a notable presence of participants from seven local government areas: Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Bokkos, Mangu, Riyom, Jos North, and Wase. Their collective efforts were crucial in addressing the pressing security issues faced by the Plateau, where inter-community tensions have historically led to conflict.

Opening the seminar, Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Div and Commander of OPSH, underscored the significance of the event in enhancing collaborative peace efforts. He remarked, “It is expedient to note that we witnessed a marked decrease in hostilities, increased farming and herding activities with minimal confrontations. These successes were achieved not merely through military operations but also through dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.” His acknowledgment of previous engagements highlighted the gradual but impactful shift towards a more peaceful Plateau.

The GOC further encouraged participants to leverage the seminar as a platform for proposing actionable suggestions that could uphold the peace cultivated in previous discussions. “Your presence here today is a testament to your commitment to peace,” he stated, emphasizing the need for continuous cooperation with his successor in the quest for lasting peace.

The interactive sessions that followed featured an array of contributions from participants, who expressed their thoughts on sustaining the relative tranquility in the state. Many stakeholders took the opportunity to commend Major General Abubakar for his exemplary leadership and dedication to the cause of peace. “He has been a rare gem, a pragmatic leader whose impact will be felt long after his tenure,” noted one community leader.

Representing Plateau State’s government, Brigadier General Gakji Shippi (retired), the Special Advisor on Security, reiterated the importance of collective efforts in achieving lasting peace. “The government is resolute in its commitment to ensuring a peaceful Plateau,” he declared, while encouraging all stakeholders to work hand-in-hand with security agencies to address the underlying causes of conflict.

In a similar vein, traditional and community leaders echoed the call for unity and collaborative action. They unanimously acknowledged that peace must be restored to Plateau State, with one traditional ruler asserting, “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice and equality among all communities.”

The incoming GOC, Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola, also took the opportunity to extend his admiration for Major General Abubakar’s accomplishments, assuring stakeholders of his commitment to fairness and transparency. “I appeal for your support as we tackle the security challenges ahead,” he stated, urging collective responsibility among all parties involved.

As the seminar drew to a close, the outgoing GOC summed up the proceedings, reflecting on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. The event concluded with the unveiling of the incoming GOC, the presentation of gifts to Major General Abubakar, and a group photograph, symbolizing the unity and collective will of all participants to pursue a peaceful and prosperous Plateau.

The seminar represented a significant milestone in the ongoing journey towards peaceful coexistence in Plateau State. With a strong commitment from all stakeholders, there is a renewed hope that the security gains achieved can be consolidated, fostering an environment where communities can thrive together harmoniously. The collaborative spirit demonstrated at the seminar serves as a foundation for building a brighter future on the Plateau, where dialogue and understanding prevail over conflict.