Stakeholders from Nasarawa, Taraba, and Benue states have emphasized the need for clear and defined boundary demarcation at inter-state borders to achieve absolute peace between neighboring states.
This idea was proposed at a two-day workshop on collaborative conflict resolution and peacebuilding in Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa states held on Tuesday at Eyas Hotel and Suites, Makurdi.
The workshop was organized by the Benue State Commission for Peace and Reconciliation, supported by the Strengthening Peacebuilding and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) project, a UK government initiative. The project focuses on conflict resolution, with Benue state being one of the focal states.
In his remarks, the Benue State Governor, Rev. Father Hyacinth Alia, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, highlighted the need for neighboring states to work together and have a boundary demarcation. He noted that peace building is a journey and should be approached with an open mind.
The Senior Programme Adviser at the British High Commission, Graham Gass, said the SPRING project was designed after reflecting on the widespread conflicts across states in Nigeria, particularly in Benue state. He emphasized the need for actionable and timely steps to restore peace through inclusive dialogue among key actors.
Giving an overview of the project Team Leader of SPRING, Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo said the program is working to promote non-violent conflict resolution and institutional challenges in Nigeria’s North Central and Northwest regions.
He added that the program focuses on several key areas, including: Strengthening peace, security, and justice institutions; addressing drivers of violence such as drugs, hate speech, and marginalization; promoting women’s participation in peace and governance processes; enhancing collaborative resource management and production; and sustainable natural resource management
Dr Ukiwo noted that, through technical assistance, research, capacity building, networking opportunities, and partnerships, the SPRING program aims to support governments, security agencies, and communities in promoting peace and stability in the region.
The Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, called for the revival of the national peace policy to achieve needed peace.
On his part, the Tor Tiv and Chairman, Benue State Council of Chiefs, Prof. James Ayatse, Emphasized the need to identify agitating issues, especially clear boundary demarcation, and proposed the formation of a Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa youth forum to identify criminals.
Representatives from Nasarawa and Taraba states also emphasized the need for defined boundaries for lasting peace. The Director General of the Benue State Commission for Peace and Reconciliation, Josephine Haba, called for sustained partnership and support from all participants.
The SPRING project is an initiative of the UK government to be implemented by Tetra Tech, with the goal of enhancing peace building and resilience in Nigeria. The project has already engaged traditional leaders across Benue state and is expected to make a significant impact in promoting peace and stability in the region.
By addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting non-violent mechanisms for resolving disputes, the program hopes to contribute to a more peaceful and stable Nigeria.
