Ladies Empowerment Goals and Support Initiative in Collaboration with Temple Foundation Hosts successful multi-stakeholder Dialogue session in Mangu LGA, Plateau State.

The Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue Session held in Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) from December 10–12, 2024, brought together representatives from diverse groups, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jama’atul Nasir Islam (JNI), Disability Rights Groups, women and youth leaders, and local government officials. Organized by the Ladies Empowerment Goals and Support Initiative (LEGASI), the session aimed to explore sustainable solutions to the conflicts that erupted in Mangu on May 15, 2023. The discussions were anchored on fostering trust, addressing root causes of conflict, and charting a path toward lasting peace.

Mr. Charles Ndukwe, from LEGASI opened the session by emphasizing the critical need for innovative approaches to conflict resolution. He highlighted LEGASI’s focus on empowering women and girls, who often bear the brunt of conflicts, and drew lessons from the organization’s peacebuilding efforts in Kasuwa Magani, Kaduna State. Nantip Joseph further provided insights into LEGASI’s previous interventions across Plateau State, including relief efforts in Bassa and Bokkos LGAs, where the organization supported displaced populations with food, clothing, and other essentials.

The three-day session focused on creating an open and inclusive platform for honest dialogue. Participants were encouraged to share their experiences and propose practical solutions without any pre-set topics that might influence their contributions. This approach ensured that discussions were organic and reflective of the communities’ lived realities.

Discussions revealed several critical issues fueling the conflict in Mangu. Deep-seated mistrust between ethnic and religious groups, compounded by political and social divisions, was identified as a major barrier to peace. Farmer-herder conflicts over land use and ownership, youth involvement in crime exacerbated by drug abuse, and the perceived inefficiency of security agencies also emerged as significant challenges. Economic hardships resulting from displacement and disrupted livelihoods further intensified the unrest, leaving many without access to basic necessities or opportunities for growth.

To address these challenges, participants proposed several solutions. Continuous dialogue among all stakeholders was seen as essential for rebuilding trust and fostering unity. Interfaith and inter-ethnic engagements were recommended to promote understanding and mutual respect. Strengthening security was also highlighted, with calls for neutral law enforcement teams, rapid response mechanisms, and accountability for perpetrators of violence. Economic empowerment initiatives, including skill acquisition programs and vocational training for youth and women, were identified as crucial for alleviating poverty and reducing the vulnerability of individuals to exploitation.

Modernizing agricultural practices and introducing ranching systems were suggested to mitigate farmer-herder conflicts and improve resource management. Legislative reforms, particularly around land use and drug abuse, were also emphasized. Additionally, participants advocated for religious and moral guidance to foster tolerance and ethical behavior within communities, urging religious leaders to speak out against violence and promote peacebuilding.

At the conclusion of the session, a Central Working Committee (CWC) was established to oversee the implementation of the proposed solutions. The committee includes representatives from CAN, JNI, Women Wing of CAN (WOWICAN), Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), women’s groups, youth, and persons with disabilities. Their first meeting was scheduled for December 17, 2024, at the District Head’s palace in Mangu.

The CWC will collaborate with government agencies, religious institutions, and LEGASI to address key issues, including improving security, promoting economic empowerment, advancing modern agricultural practices, advocating for legislative reforms, and providing moral and religious guidance. The stakeholders also agreed on the need for regular dialogue sessions, town-hall meetings, and community-driven initiatives to sustain the momentum toward peace.

In conclusion, the dialogue session underscored the importance of collective action in addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering sustainable peace in Mangu LGA. LEGASI, alongside other partners, remains committed to supporting the implementation of the proposed solutions and monitoring progress to ensure a brighter future for the community. Through continued collaboration, Mangu can begin to heal and rebuild, setting an example for other conflict-affected regions.