By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (OFR), has emphasized the importance of community-driven peacebuilding initiatives, urging all stakeholders to embrace collective responsibility in addressing security challenges in Nigeria’s North Central region.
General Musa made the remarks on Wednesday, 5 June 2025, during the official launching of the Presidential Community Engagement Peace Initiative (PCEPI) and the North Central Peace Summit held in Jos, Plateau State.
According to an official signed statement by the Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the event took place at Crispan Suites and Event Centre and was convened by the Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Dr. Mrs. Abiodun Essiet.
The summit, described by organisers as an innovative peace network, is designed to advance the Federal Government’s peace agenda by promoting social cohesion and establishing community-based peace groups in every ward across the North Central geopolitical zone.
General Musa participated in the “FIRE SIDE CHAT” segment of the programme, where he addressed critical security concerns affecting the region. The session, moderated by Dr. Essiet, provided an opportunity for the CDS to respond to questions on persistent insecurity and to propose strategic solutions aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and economic revival.
“Peace is a shared responsibility. Everyone from the government to traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth and women groups must work together to secure our communities,” the CDS stated.
He reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces to supporting peace efforts while encouraging community participation in early warning, intelligence sharing, and conflict resolution mechanisms.
General Musa further highlighted the importance of trust-building between security agencies and civilians, noting that sustained collaboration would yield lasting peace and stability in the region.
Accompanying the CDS to the summit were the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General EF Oyinlola, along with senior Principal Staff Officers from the Defence Headquarters.
The event drew participants from civil society, community leaders, youth organizations, and other key stakeholders, all of whom expressed optimism about the renewed efforts toward achieving peace in the North Central zone.
