Events
“Conflict Prevention Is Always Less Costly Than Crisis Management” – Dr. Agoha Urges Action on Early Warning System
Stakeholders from across Plateau State have validated a strategic framework aimed at strengthening Early Warning Early Response (EWER) systems to prevent violent conflicts.
Speaking at the Validation Workshop for the EWER Strategy and Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs), Dr. Chris Agoha, Country Manager of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), emphasized the cost-effectiveness of conflict prevention compared to crisis management.
“Conflict prevention is always less costly than dealing with a crisis in terms of human life, destruction, and instability in neighbouring countries. Early warning and early response systems are vital for conflict prevention, ensuring timely interventions that keep civilians safe and foster sustainable development,” he added.
The workshop, organized by HD and SPRiNG in collaboration with the UK International Development, convened representatives from government ministries, security agencies, civil society organizations (CSOs), traditional rulers, the media, market women associations, and other key stakeholders to finalize a structured approach for conflict detection and response in Plateau State.
The SPRiNG Team Lead, represented by the Regional Manager, Dr. Okoha, emphasized the necessity of sustained peacebuilding initiatives.
“Peacebuilding is a continuous process. For peace to be sustainable, an effective EWER system is of paramount importance. I believe the documents generated from this stakeholders’ workshop will be actionable, ensuring both conflict prevention and timely responses to early warning signs,” he stated, acknowledging stakeholders and partners for their dedication.
During the workshop, a draft EWER document was presented, outlining crucial areas such as historical conflict trends, root causes of conflicts, response strategies, implementation frameworks and expected outcomes. Participants conducted a SWOT and Force Field Analysis, revealing key weaknesses in the current system, including:
-
Poor inter-agency coordination and collaboration
- Limited community engagement and ownership
- Weak policy frameworks and inadequate legislation
- Insufficient funding for EWER initiatives
- Environmental degradation and geographical constraints
However, key driving forces that support peacebuilding efforts were also identified:
- Strong civil society engagement
- Volunteerism and grassroots participation
- Historical conflict experiences that inform preventive strategies
- Perceived injustices and the need for resolution
- Intergenerational knowledge-sharing on conflict prevention
To bridge these gaps, stakeholders recommended several key strategies, including:
- Decentralizing EWER systems to local government levels
- Strengthening EWER capacity through human resource training, technology adoption, and community sensitization
- Enhancing intelligence-sharing and coordination mechanisms
- Continuous monitoring and evaluation of EWER interventions
- Developing innovative financing strategies for sustainability
Speaking at the event, Kaneng Tabitha Pam, Plateau State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), underscored the importance of ensuring grassroots communities understand the EWER system and its benefits.
“This initiative mostly concerns individuals at the grassroots, and their understanding of the process and end goal is of utmost importance to aid implementation. That is why, for our agency, this is a done deal. We must take actionable steps to step down the information to them—those at the grassroots and local communities,” she stated.
She further emphasized that the NOA would leverage local dialects and community-based sensitization methods.
“This will be done in their local dialect using foot soldiers—our staff who are familiar with the communities and their peculiarities. Of course, we will collaborate with other agencies and organizations, as we can’t work alone in the sensitization process.”
For the EWER system to be effective and sustainable, stakeholders stressed the need for:
- Strong political will and commitment from the government and policymakers
- Adequate resource allocation for operational efficiency
- Effective inter-agency collaboration to prevent duplication of efforts
- Community ownership and participation in EWER initiatives
- Continuous learning, adaptation, and transparency in governance
As Plateau State moves forward with this strategy, stakeholders reaffirm that the success of the EWER system hinges on sustained commitment, collaboration, and the political will to act before conflicts escalate.
Events
COAS Honours Troops with Eid El Kabir Luncheon in Plateau, Commends Sacrifices in Ongoing Operations
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu NAM, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, hosted a special Eid el Kabir luncheon for frontline troops in Plateau State in recognition of their sacrifices and sustained efforts in maintaining peace and security across the Joint Operations Area.
The event, organised by Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army in collaboration with the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), held at the Operation ENDURING PEACE headquarters in Jos and brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and invited guests in a festive atmosphere.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander Armour Corps, Major General U.B. Abubakar, delivered the COAS’s goodwill message, describing Eid el Kabir as a reminder of faith, sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to duty.
He commended troops for their resilience in the face of security challenges across the country, noting their contributions to ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other forms of criminality.
According to him, the Nigerian Army remains proud of the commitment and professionalism of its personnel, adding that their sacrifices continue to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, describing their memory as a source of inspiration for serving troops. He extended condolences to their families and assured them of continued support and welfare attention from the Army.
The COAS, through his representative, reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ welfare, noting that ongoing infrastructure projects, housing schemes, healthcare support, and educational initiatives for personnel and their families remain a priority under his command philosophy.
He urged troops to remain disciplined, professional, and united, while using the festive period to reflect on the values of sacrifice, loyalty, and service to the nation. He also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in sustaining operational success.
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, said Eid el Kabir symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, and devotion—values he noted are deeply reflected in military service.
He commended troops operating under challenging conditions, describing their resilience and professionalism as vital to ongoing peace efforts in the region.
Oyinlola also observed a moment of remembrance for fallen personnel, stating that their sacrifices must continue to inspire commitment to mission success. He urged troops to remain vigilant and dedicated to sustaining gains in security operations.
The event was attended by senior security officials, including representatives of the Special Adviser on Security to the Plateau State Government and Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, heads of security agencies, senior military officers, and other stakeholders.
High-ranking officers also took part in serving meals to troops, a gesture that highlighted camaraderie and appreciation, while cultural performances and entertainment added colour to the celebration.
The luncheon ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and continued dedication to national service as troops marked the Eid celebration with their families and colleagues.
Entertainment
Jos Gunners Set for Mega Celebration as Arsenal Victory Parade, UCL Watch Party Hit the City
Jos is set to come alive in Arsenal colours as fans across Plateau State prepare for the much-anticipated Jos Arsenal Victory Parade, UEFA Champions League Watch Party, and Arsenal Awards Night in what promises to be one of the biggest fan gatherings in the city.
The event, described as the ultimate Gooners’ link-up, will bring together Arsenal supporters from across the state for an evening packed with celebration, entertainment, and football passion — with free entry for everyone.
Activities kick off on Saturday, May 30, with the Victory Parade scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM sharp from Terminus, by Zenith Bank, as fans are expected to flood the streets in Arsenal jerseys to celebrate in style.
The celebration will then move to Tamarald Event Centre (Outdoor), off Old Airport Junction, from 4:00 PM, where guests will enjoy an exciting lineup of activities.
Organisers have promised premium entertainment featuring free party jollof for the first 50 attendees, sizzling barbecue, music performances, comedy, dance showcases, special Arsenal awards presentations, and the official launch of a brand-new Arsenal-themed song.
Supporters are simply encouraged to show up in their Arsenal jerseys and be part of the unforgettable experience.
The event is supported by Areo Global Services, Malangwa Media Empire, Nugroove Multimedia, Grace Dimensions Ministries, Dabels Cakes and Catering, Jos Metro Foods, Da Zone Concepts, Joe B Entertainment, Royal K.O.C, and the Gunners Rhythm Gang.
For enquiries, support, and table reservations, interested participants can contact:
07031001105
08126007839
For Jos Gooners, this is more than an event — it is a celebration of football, community, and Arsenal pride.
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