Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has taken a bold step to address insecurity by launching a 5,000-member Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) and a Joint Security Task Force called Operation Anyam Nyor. As part of this initiative, the Governor donated 100 Hilux trucks and 600 special combat motorcycles to enhance the operational capacity of security agencies in the state. Speaking at the launch in Makurdi, Governor Alia emphasized that the BSCPG was established by law to support the state’s existing security agencies. He explained that this collaboration would adopt global best practices in tackling the region’s security challenges. Highlighting the significance of security to societal progress, he said, “Our goal is to decisively address criminality and create a safe environment where residents can live, farm, and thrive without fear. This launch of the Civil Protection Guards, alongside the donation of vehicles and unveiling of Operation Anyam Nyor, is a critical milestone in our mission to safeguard Benue State.” The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu for his backing of the initiative and praised the volunteers who joined the security outfit. He urged them to maintain high ethical standards in carrying out their duties. Royal and Political Endorsements The Tor Tiv and Chairman of the Benue State Traditional Council, Prof. James Ayatse, applauded Governor Alia’s efforts, describing it as a historic investment in security. “This shows you prioritize security, and you have the full backing of the Traditional Council. We will work closely with the guards to combat insecurity in our communities,” he said. However, he cautioned against using the guards for political purposes. Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Inuwa Yahaya, also praised the initiative, calling it a proactive step toward addressing Benue’s security challenges. He urged residents to support Governor Alia in his efforts to ensure peace. Similarly, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Umar Ganduje, congratulated Governor Alia and the state government. He noted that the establishment of the BSCPG would enhance security, particularly in mitigating conflicts between farmers and herders. Governor Alia’s multi-pronged approach underscores his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and creating a conducive environment for economic and social development in Benue State. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Over the past two years, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has successfully resolved more than 2,775 farmer-herder disputes across nine local government areas in Taraba and Adamawa states. This achievement stems from efforts under the Contributing to the Mitigation of Conflict over Natural Resources (COMITAS II) Project, which focuses on peaceful conflict resolution and resource-sharing strategies. Key Interventions and Areas Covered The COMITAS II Project established 12 Community Response Network (CRN) teams to mediate disputes between farmers and herders over land and natural resources. These efforts have benefited local government areas in: Speaking during a weekend briefing in Yola, Adamawa State capital, Aliyu Abdullahi, the IOM COMITAS II Project Team Lead for Numan LGA, highlighted the significance of reopening blocked cattle routes and providing shared infrastructure. These actions have been crucial in fostering collaboration and reducing tensions between farming and herding communities. Sustaining Peace Through Community Initiatives To maintain the peace achieved through the COMITAS II Project, the Taraba and Adamawa States Radio Listeners Club has stepped up its peace-building efforts by creating forums in 32 farming and herding communities. Christopher Sunday, a representative of the club, explained the vital role of their radio talk shows in promoting peaceful coexistence. These programs, supported by Search for Common Ground (SFCG) and broadcast on six FM stations, encourage dialogue and mutual understanding between conflicting groups. Victor Okpanachi, Media Coordinator for SFCG, shared plans to enhance these efforts by equipping listeners’ clubs with public address systems, radio sets, and canopies. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with radio stations to ensure these peace-building shows continue beyond the COMITAS II Project’s duration. Advancing Long-Term Peace The collaborative initiatives in Taraba and Adamawa emphasize the importance of sustained dialogue, infrastructure development, and community involvement in resolving disputes. By addressing the root causes of farmer-herder conflicts, such as access to natural resources, these programs are paving the way for long-term peace and stability in the region.
