Journalists and media professionals from across Plateau State have concluded a three-day intensive Media for Peace workshop organized under the Peacecore Project implemented by GIZ Nigeria at Crispan Suites and Hotel, Jos.
The workshop, which marked the Second Cohort of the Media for Peace training, focused on conflict-sensitive reporting, communication development and peacebuilding, artificial intelligence, and the use of fact-checking tools in journalism practice.
Speaking during the training, Susan Gopuk of GIZ Nigeria highlighted the organization’s long-standing commitment to peacebuilding, conflict transformation, and livelihoods support in Nigeria. She explained that GIZ, a German agency for international cooperation funded mainly by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, operates in over 120 countries and has maintained a presence in Nigeria for 51 years with more than 30 projects nationwide.
According to her, the Peacecore Project currently operates in Kaduna, Plateau, and Taraba states in collaboration with governments, civil society organizations, media practitioners, and international partners. She noted that while the project’s first phase focused on strengthening peacebuilding and conflict resolution between farmers and herders, the second phase now emphasizes conflict transformation and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable groups including women, youth, children, internally displaced persons, farmers, herders, and persons living with disabilities.
Susan stressed that gender equality remains central to the project, with deliberate efforts aimed at improving women’s access to rights, representation, and resources. She also highlighted interventions in dialogue, mental health support, youth engagement, climate-smart livelihoods, and infrastructure development.
She further emphasized the role of the media in promoting peace and countering hate speech, misinformation, and divisive narratives, especially in fragile communities like Plateau State.
One of the resource persons, Lady Irene David-Irene, delivered a presentation on Communication Development and Peace Building, where she underscored the influence journalists and media professionals wield in shaping public perception and social cohesion.
She warned that every action or inaction by journalists carries consequences, particularly in conflict-prone societies where reports can either promote peace or escalate tensions. She identified misinformation, sensationalism, hate speech, and biased reporting as key issues threatening peace and stability.
Lady Irene urged participants to embrace ethical, balanced, and conflict-sensitive journalism capable of fostering dialogue, unity, and mutual understanding within communities.
Thaddeus Yilmen said the sessions refreshed journalists on the ethics, responsibilities, and expectations of the profession, particularly the “do’s and don’ts” of responsible reporting. He called for more regular trainings to enable more media practitioners to benefit and contribute to peace-focused journalism.
Similarly, Tongnaan Bawa appreciated the organizers and facilitators for what she described as a valuable and enlightening experience. She assured that participants would apply the knowledge gained and continue promoting responsible journalism and peaceful narratives in their respective platforms.
The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by GIZ through the Peacecore Project to strengthen peace-focused communication, counter misinformation, and build the capacity of journalists and young people as advocates for peaceful coexistence and conflict prevention in Nigeria.
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.
Major General U.B. Abubakar
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.
General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola
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.
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.