Benue State to establish Peace Networks to connect communities

By Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja

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The Benue State Peace Commission has announced the establishment of Peace Networks and Committees at the ward and local government levels, which will connect and support a larger statewide peace network.

This initiative was disclosed by the Director General of the Benue State Commission for Peace and Reconciliation, Mrs. Josephine Haba, during a three-day capacity building training on the Implementation, Monitoring, and Reporting of the 3rd National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) in Abuja, Nigeria.

 

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Mrs. Haba emphasized the importance of each state reviewing and evolving its National Action Plan (NAP) to address emerging needs. To this end, Benue State is developing a document titled Durable Solution, which will encapsulate the core principles of women-centered peace and security.

Reflecting on her role, she noted, “Women, peace, and security is not just about women; it’s about everyone. Security and peace are universal concerns, and women play a key role. The Durable Solution document is a milestone that will prioritize the principles of women, peace, and security”, she noted

Upon returning to Benue, Mrs. Haba plans to meet with all peace desk officers in the state to share insights from the training and encourage them to apply this knowledge at their respective levels.

“At the ward level, peace committees will be established, and all committees within each local government will unite to form a comprehensive local peace network. The Plans include establishing peace committees from the ward level up to local government levels to foster community-based peace efforts. This structure will ensure peace initiatives are rooted in every community.”

 

 

The Director General further affirmed Benue State’s readiness to implementing the 3rd National Action Plan, describing her role as a peace manager that spans multiple sectors within the state.

“I have peace desk officers in all ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). These officers will help ensure that every agency in Benue implements the principles shared at this training”.

Mrs. Haba highlighted Benue’s commitment to female representation in peace and security processes, noting that Benue is a leader in this regard.
“There is no state like Benue in terms of female representation in peace and security,” she said. “As the Director General of Peace and Reconciliation, I represent security efforts within the state. Our Secretary to the State Government (SSG) is a woman, and several critical agencies, like the DSS and NAPTIP in Benue, are also led by women.”

She further noted that Governor of Benue State supports the advancement of women in security roles. The Civil Defense commandant in Benue is a woman, and the governor actively encourages the contributions of female leaders in peace and security.

“When it comes to engaging women in the security sector, Benue is setting a high standard,” Mrs. Haba concluded.

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