3 DIVISION NIGERIAN ARMY AND OPERATION SAFE HAVEN HOST SEMINAR TO ENSURE PEACEFUL HARVEST SEASON AND YULETIDE CELEBRATION

The Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army (3 Div NA) and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) held a one-day seminar on November 26, 2024, aimed at fostering peace and security during the ongoing harvest season and the upcoming yuletide celebrations in Plateau State. The event, held at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, brought together government officials, traditional and religious leaders, as well as community women, and youth leaders from seven Local Government Areas: Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Bokkos, Jos North, Mangu, Riyom, and Wase.

In his opening address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division NA and Commander OPSH, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, highlighted the importance of the seminar, noting that the harvest and festive seasons are often targeted by criminal elements. “This seminar underscores our shared responsibility to ensure peace and security during these critical periods,” he said. He also praised the progress made since the previous seminar held in June 2024, which contributed to a secure environment for farming and herding activities across the Joint Operations Area. Major General Abubakar stressed the need for sustained collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders, urging all to remain committed to ensuring a peaceful harvest season. He also assured attendees of the security forces’ continued efforts, combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies such as early warning systems and support for community vigilante groups.

The seminar’s theme, "Fostering Peaceful Coexistence for a Secure Harvest and Harmonious Yuletide Season," was explored through lectures delivered by resource persons from Christian and Muslim communities. The lectures emphasized the importance of peace as a prerequisite for national security and encouraged reconciliation to strengthen bonds among ethno-religious groups. The speakers also advocated for dialogue as the most effective means of resolving conflicts, urging stakeholders to create platforms for meaningful engagement and education on peaceful coexistence.
Representing the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr Caleb Muftwang, former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly Rt Hon Titus Alams commended 3 Division NA and OPSH for their dedication to enhancing security in the state. He assured participants of the government’s unwavering support for security agencies and pledged to implement the recommendations from the seminar. The Governor also praised the efforts of traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, and youth in promoting peace, urging continued collaboration to secure the state.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of a Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000.00) only scholarship award by Major General Abubakar to Miss Sandra Izang Abi, an indigenous student of the University of Jos. The award, part of the Nigerian Army’s scholarship initiative, aims to support students in their educational pursuits and contribute to national development. Major General Abubakar expressed gratitude to the Acting Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede for his commitment to community welfare and encouraged Miss Abi to excel in her studies.

The seminar concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing a united step toward a secure and harmonious harvest season and yuletide celebration in Plateau State.
AI DANJA
MAJ
Ag DDAPR
3 Division Nigerian Army