Tinubu Sends Peace Envoy to Plateau to Foster Intercommunal Harmony

Tinubu Sends Peace Envoy to Plateau to Foster Intercommunal Harmony

In a strategic move aimed at restoring peace and promoting intercommunal harmony in Plateau State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu dispatched a peace emissary, Dr. Abiodun Essiet, to the region.

This initiative, announced on November 16, 2025, underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing longstanding tensions and fostering dialogue among diverse ethnic and religious communities in the state.

Dr. Essiet, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement for the North Central Zone, embarked on a two-day mission beginning Thursday. Her visit was marked by a series of high-level engagements with key stakeholders, including Christian clerics and leaders of the Fulani Miyetti Allah group.

These meetings were designed to bridge divides and encourage mutual understanding between communities that have historically experienced friction.

One of the highlights of the envoy’s visit was a courtesy call on Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, Chairman of the Regional Church Council (RCC) in Barkin Ladi. Discussions during this meeting centered on the role of faith-based leadership in promoting peace and reconciliation. Reverend Dachomo emphasized the importance of spiritual guidance and moral leadership in healing fractured relationships and rebuilding trust among communities.

The peace mission culminated in a town hall meeting held in Jos, the state capital. This gathering brought together delegates from all 17 local government areas of Plateau State, including traditional rulers, women leaders, youth representatives, and other influential voices.

The forum served as a platform for open dialogue, where participants explored strategies for strengthening community-based peace structures and enhancing coexistence among the region’s diverse populations.

Dr. Essiet facilitated a workshop during the town hall, focusing on the establishment of sustainable peace frameworks tailored to the unique needs of each local government area.

The workshop emphasized grassroots engagement, inclusive governance, and the importance of local ownership in peacebuilding efforts. Participants were encouraged to take proactive roles in conflict prevention and resolution, leveraging traditional institutions and community networks.

The presidential initiative was formally communicated through a press statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Tinubu.

The statement reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity and promote unity across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. It also highlighted the significance of community engagement as a tool for conflict mitigation and national cohesion.

President Tinubu’s decision to send a peace envoy to Plateau State reflects a broader policy direction that prioritizes dialogue over confrontation and seeks to empower local actors in the pursuit of lasting peace.

The mission has been widely welcomed by stakeholders in Plateau, who view it as a timely intervention in light of recent tensions and security challenges.