The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Hon. Dr. Abiodun Essiet, PhD, has concluded a two-day peace mission to Benue State aimed at advancing sustainable peace, fostering dialogue, and addressing the persistent herder–farmer conflict affecting communities across the state.
As part of the strategic engagement, Dr. Essiet held a series of high-level meetings with critical stakeholders committed to restoring peace and strengthening community relations. Her engagements included a meeting with the Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, as well as a courtesy and condolence visit to the Paramount Ruler of the Idoma Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Agaba-Idu Dr. John Elaigwu Odogbo (Och’Idoma V).
A major highlight of the mission was a landmark peace dialogue involving Fulani community leaders and members of the Farmers’ Association representing the nine Local Government Areas of Benue South (Zone C). The dialogue provided a platform for open and constructive discussions, resulting in a shared commitment by both parties to reject criminality, uphold justice, promote peaceful coexistence, and strengthen collaboration with security agencies in safeguarding their communities.
At the conclusion of the peace mission, Dr. Essiet briefed the Executive Governor of Benue State, presenting comprehensive feedback gathered from the Fulani community, the Farmers’ Association, traditional rulers, security stakeholders, and other community representatives. She also outlined practical recommendations aimed at sustaining ongoing peacebuilding initiatives, strengthening community engagement, and preventing future conflicts.
Speaking on the outcome of the mission, Dr. Essiet reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, and inclusive development across the North Central region. She emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through continuous collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents.
The successful conclusion of the two-day mission underscores the Renewed Hope Administration’s dedication to conflict resolution, community engagement, and the pursuit of sustainable peace and development across Benue State and the wider North Central region.