Army holds peace meeting with residents of Plateau community
The 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) held a crucial stakeholders engagement with the Butura Community from Bokkos Local Government Area and the newly elected leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos. The meeting aimed to address the ongoing farmers/herders conflicts in Plateau State and to promote peaceful resolutions.
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During the engagement, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of OPSH, urged the Butura Community to continue collaborating with security agencies to resolve conflicts peacefully. Dr (Engr) John Gabriel Makwal, the District Head of Butura, expressed gratitude for the military’s ongoing efforts to restore security in the area. He highlighted the positive impact of increased troop deployments, which have instilled hope among the displaced populations, allowing many to return to their homes.
Dr Makwal also called for enhanced security in vulnerable villages and proposed the establishment of a military-civil relations committee to foster better cooperation in managing disputes as the harvest season approaches.
In response, Major General Abubakar assured the community of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He welcomed the idea of a civil-military relations committee, emphasizing its potential to improve coverage in areas lacking security presence. The GOC encouraged community members to report security concerns through the new toll-free line for prompt action.
In a separate discussion, the newly elected executives of MACBAN, led by Chairman Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf, reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the Nigerian Army to achieve lasting peace between farmers and herders. Alhaji Ibrahim commended the military for its proactive approach to security and conflict resolution, acknowledging its pivotal role in maintaining peace in the region.
Major General Abubakar recognized the significance of addressing cattle-related conflicts, urging the new leadership to promote peace and address issues such as underage grazing and night herding. He stressed the importance of engaging with herders to discourage actions that could lead to violence and property destruction.
The engagement concluded with the presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ book, and group photographs, marking a significant step towards fostering cooperation and understanding in Plateau State.
Aliyu DANJA
Major
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
3 Division Nigerian Army
