Nasarawa Varsity Postgraduate Students Understudy Plateau Conflict Resolution Model

Plateau State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has hosted a delegation of PhD and MSc students from the Department of Peace and Conflict Management, Cohort 7 of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, on an educational visit.

LEADERSHIP reports that the students are exploring practical approaches to peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

The delegation was received by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mr. Yakubu Ishaya Mallo, alongside local government chairmen and first-class traditional rulers, during an interactive session which focused on strengthening peace at the grassroots.

In his remarks, Mallo noted that state, often described as a “Home of Peace and Tourism,” had experienced recurring conflicts over the years, with concerted efforts by the state government, security agencies and traditional institutions to gradually restore normalcy.

“Peace, which we are supposed to enjoy, has to some extent been tampered with by conflict, which is unavoidable in any society,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the visit would generate fresh ideas to ensure that lasting peace is achieved, adding that “something new will come out of this interaction, not only for the state but for the nation at large.”

Mallo outlined the role of the ministry in coordinating peace and security at the local government level through establishing peace committees involving traditional rulers and other stakeholders.

“These committees review developments within their communities and forward reports to the ministry, enabling government to respond appropriately. Security, peace and good governance remain top priorities,” he said.

The leader of the delegation, who is also the director of the institute, Prof. Tahiba Shiba, explained that the study tour formed part of the requirements for the doctoral programme, which includes field visits to areas with histories of conflict.

“Where there are crises, we go there to learn. Plateau was carefully selected, and after this, we may proceed to other regions and even countries like Rwanda or Finland for comparative studies,” he said.

He added that the cohort comprises of participants from diverse professional backgrounds, including security agencies, diplomacy, and public service, all working towards developing practical solutions to conflict in the country.

The chairman of Shendam local government area, Kemi Nshe, commended the initiative and welcomed the students, noting that the visit reflected a growing commitment to finding lasting solutions to insecurity.

Similarly, the Agwom Izere, Wakili Isaac, underscored the role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace across communities.

“It is incumbent on us to ensure that our communities live in peace. We work closely with government to achieve this,” he said.

He identified marginalisation, lack of unity, and inadequate infrastructure as some of the drivers of conflict, while calling for increased government presence in rural areas.

“Peace is everybody’s responsibility. When you see something, you say something. But government must ensure development reaches the grassroots,” he added.

The monarch advocated for constitutional recognition for traditional institutions to enhance their effectiveness in conflict resolution.