Army Engages Plateau Youth Leaders to Strengthen Peacebuilding Efforts
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) initiative, has intensified its non-kinetic peacebuilding efforts through a strategic engagement with youth leaders across Plateau State aimed at enhancing collaboration and addressing security challenges.
The meeting, held on June 6 at the Headquarters of Operation Peace in Jos, brought together youth leaders from across the state, military officials and representatives of key components of the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre (JIFC).
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Maj.-Gen. Folusho Oyinlola, was represented at the meeting by the Chief of Staff, Operation Peace, Brig.-Gen. M.S. Sule.
Also in attendance were the Coordinator of the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre and other component commanders of the intelligence and security coordination platform.
Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between security agencies and young people as part of broader efforts to address security concerns through dialogue, community engagement and information sharing.
Military authorities noted that youth participation remains critical to sustaining peace and preventing the spread of violence, particularly in communities affected by recurring security challenges.
Participants explored avenues for deepening trust between local communities and security agencies, while also identifying ways youths could contribute positively to conflict prevention, early warning mechanisms and peacebuilding initiatives.
The engagement forms part of Operation Peace’s non-kinetic strategy, which complements ongoing security operations by promoting community involvement, stakeholder engagement and peaceful conflict resolution.
Speaking during the meeting, military representatives reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Safe Haven to working closely with all segments of society to foster lasting peace and stability across Plateau State and its neighbouring areas.
The youth leaders, in turn, pledged continued support for efforts aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence, security awareness and community resilience.
