Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has taken a significant step towards sustaining peace in the state by inaugurating the Benue Peace Implementation Committee (BPIC). The committee's primary responsibility is to implement the state's Natural Resource Peace Agreement. Alia, represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, stated that the committee would play a vital role in coordinating activities, monitoring progress, ensuring accountability, and promoting community participation in the peace process.
The inauguration ceremony took place in Makurdi, with Alia describing it as an important step towards moving from the signing of a peace agreement to practical implementation. He commended the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) for its continued partnership with the state in promoting dialogue, conflict resolution, and reconciliation. Alia emphasized that peace was crucial in the development of agriculture investment, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other sectors of the state.
Alia's administration is adopting a proactive approach to conflict management by focusing not only on responding to conflict but also on preventing it through dialogue, early warning, and response mechanisms. He urged the committee to promote inclusivity and community ownership by involving women, youths, traditional and religious leaders, and affected communities in its activities. Alia stressed that peacebuilding efforts must be locally owned and institutionally sustained beyond external interventions.
The committee, established through broad consultations with stakeholders, aims to restore Benue's reputation as a peaceful and hospitable state. Country Manager of HD Nigeria, Chris Agoha, stated that lasting peace involved more than ending violence, stressing that justice, trust, and mutual respect were equally important. Agoha acknowledged the difficulty of consolidating peace after conflicts, particularly in communities previously considered to have moved beyond violence but expanding fresh attacks.
Benue Secretary to the State Government, Deborah Abe, commended HD for its continued commitment and resilience in supporting peacebuilding initiatives in the state. Abe described peace as essential for individuals, families, communities, and the country, adding that dialogue had provided a platform for stakeholders to identify shared challenges and develop solutions. The SSG welcomed the inclusion of women and youths in the committee and urged members to deepen engagement with both groups.
The Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Prof. James Ayatse, expressed his support for the committee, stating that traditional rulers would continue to support government and other stakeholders in peacebuilding efforts across the state. Ayatse urged the committee to include skills acquisition and youth empowerment in its peacebuilding programmes, noting that unemployment among young people could contribute to conflict.
The Benue Peace Implementation Committee has a three-year tenure, which began on September 22, with members drawn from traditional and community leaders, among others. The committee's establishment marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to sustain peace and promote development. Key initiatives and progress will be closely monitored, with stakeholders working together to ensure the committee's success.
Key points
- The committee will coordinate and monitor the state's natural resources peace agreement.
- The committee aims to promote inclusivity and community ownership in peacebuilding efforts.
- The establishment of the committee marks a significant step towards sustaining peace and promoting development in Benue State.
