Operation Enduring Peace Commander Tasks Jos, Riyom Stakeholders on Peace

Yemi Kosoko in Jos

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, has called on stakeholders from Jos South and Riyom local government areas of Plateau State to intensify efforts toward peaceful coexistence as the farming season approaches.

Speaking during a strategic stakeholders’ engagement held in Jos, Major General Oyinlola described the meeting as a crucial step in consolidating recent gains in security and preventing emerging threats from escalating into full‑blown conflict.

He commended residents of the two LGAs for the noticeable decline in violent incidents in recent months, attributing the progress to sustained dialogue, community cooperation, and deliberate conflict‑mitigation efforts. “This relative calm did not occur by chance,” he said. “It is the product of collective resolve to set aside differences for the greater good.”

However, the GOC expressed concern over recent attacks on miners, the influx of large herds of cattle into farming communities, and reports of illegal arms manufacturing in parts of the state. He warned that these developments pose serious risks to food security, economic stability, and social cohesion if not addressed promptly.

To bolster security and support local livelihoods, Major General Oyinlola announced two key interventions approved by the military high command: the distribution of fertilizers to stakeholders on both sides of the divide, and the deployment of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion—an elite Special Forces unit—to Plateau State.

“These measures reflect the commitment of the Defence and Army Headquarters to safeguarding lives and property,” he said, adding that the military remains neutral and is deployed solely to enforce peace and protect all law‑abiding citizens.

The GOC urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, farmers, and herders to strengthen community‑based conflict resolution mechanisms and adopt a jointly developed code of conduct to guide peaceful coexistence. He also appealed to the media to avoid sensational reporting that could inflame tensions.

Chairmen of Riyom and Jos South LGAs, Hon. Sati Bature Shuwa and Honourable Silas Patrick Dung, praised the Army leadership for its unwavering commitment to peace and support for farmers. They encouraged stakeholders to take the message of peace back to their communities.

Participants at the engagement expressed appreciation to the GOC for creating a platform for dialogue and pledged to work collectively toward lasting peace.

The event featured an interactive session and the distribution of fertilisers to community representatives.