By Nkechi Eze
In a determined effort to strengthen civil-military relations and promote sustainable peace in Plateau State, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Folusho Oyinlola, has called on youths to take active roles in building resilient and peaceful communities.
This appeal was made on Friday, 20th June 2025, during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Bache Youth Movement from Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State to the Headquarters of 3 Division in Jos.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the GOC used the opportunity to stress the vital role young people play in nation-building, urging them to unite against all forms of criminality and resist being used by agents of instability.
“You must be beacons of hope and model responsible citizenship wherever you go,” Major General Oyinlola said. “Avoid being manipulated into criminal ventures. Instead, invest in your future through education and community development.”
He warned against the dangers of illegal mining, drug abuse, and other vices responsible for rising school dropouts and social unrest. The GOC assured the delegation of the Nigerian Army’s support for youth-led peace initiatives, pledging to provide training and logistics to enhance their impact.
The visiting delegation was led by the President of the Bache Youth Movement, Comrade Dauda Aku, who congratulated the GOC on his recent appointment and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to fostering unity and positive change among the youth. He emphasized the need for collaboration with security forces to address lingering security challenges in Bassa and surrounding areas.
Comrade Aku commended the Division’s efforts in maintaining peace across volatile communities and pledged continued support to the military’s peacebuilding drive. He also highlighted ongoing youth-focused initiatives geared toward education, skills acquisition, and civic engagement.
The visit concluded with a symbolic exchange of souvenirs, the signing of the visitors’ book, and a group photograph, all of which underscored the growing synergy between the military and youth stakeholders in the region.
Friday’s engagement adds to the broader strategic efforts of the Nigerian Army, through 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN, to consolidate community trust, promote dialogue, and empower local structures in the collective pursuit of lasting peace in Plateau State and its environs.
