From Vision to Impact: 10 Years of Structured Peacebuilding in Plateau

The 10th anniversary of the Plateau State Peace Building Agency was more than a ceremonial gathering, it was a significant milestone in the state’s peace journey. Hosted at Odilins Event Centre, the celebration brought together government officials, security agencies, civil society actors, religious and traditional leaders, youth and women groups, as well as development partners. With the theme “A Decade of Building Peace Together: Learning, Institutional Memory, and Sustaining Peace for the Future,” the event combined reflection with forward planning, including the launch of a comprehensive Knowledge Management Framework and Communication Strategy.

Representing the state government, Her Excellency, Ngo Josephine Piyo, Deputy Governor of Plateau State, conveyed appreciation to all those who have contributed to stabilizing communities across the state. She acknowledged the sacrifices of security personnel and commended public servants, faith leaders, civil society organizations, and international partners for their consistent support. In her remarks, she emphasized that peace requires deliberate planning and sustained effort, noting that dialogue, early warning mechanisms, and inclusive engagement remain critical pillars for long-term stability.

The Director General of the agency, Dr. Julie Sanda, welcomed participants to the Plateau Peace Architecture Forum and reflected on the agency’s establishment on February 2, 2016. She described its founding as a turning point from reactive crisis response to structured and preventive peacebuilding. Over the past decade, she explained, the agency has facilitated dialogue platforms, strengthened mediation networks, and trained community and political leaders in conflict-sensitive governance. Special attention has also been given to empowering young people and women, promoting responsible communication, and integrating peacebuilding with humanitarian and livelihood initiatives.

While progress has been recorded, she noted that sustaining peace requires continuous commitment from all stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address, Chris Kwaja underscored the importance of institutional coordination in managing conflict. He pointed out that nearly every resident of Plateau State has felt the impact of violence whether through displacement, trauma, or loss—making collective responsibility essential. He called for stronger documentation of lessons learned and for preserving institutional memory to ensure that past experiences guide future interventions.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the official presentation of the agency’s Knowledge Management Framework and Roadmap, alongside the unveiling of its 10th anniversary logo by the Deputy Governor.

Goodwill messages further enriched the event. Representatives from the GIZ reaffirmed their partnership, while civil society and security representatives emphasized collaboration between communities and security institutions. Speakers also stressed the importance of gender inclusion and the active participation of marginalized groups in peace processes.

The anniversary gathering drew participation from leaders of the Police, Civil Defence, Immigration, Correctional Service, and other security outfits, as well as representatives of persons with disabilities, youth networks, and women’s associations demonstrating broad-based ownership of the peace agenda. During an interactive session, participants acknowledged improvements in dialogue and early warning structures but urged deeper grassroots engagement and sustained funding to consolidate gains.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Elkanah Izam, Director of Administration, expressed gratitude to the state government, development partners, security agencies, staff, and the resilient citizens of Plateau State. He reiterated that peace is not sustained by rhetoric but by consistent action, trust-building, and collaboration. As the event concluded, the collective message was unmistakable: the work of building peace must continue with renewed determination to secure a stable and prosperous future for Plateau State.