As the farming season begins, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), the military unit responsible for security in Plateau and parts of Kaduna State, organized a peace summit for farmers and herdsmen.
The summit took place on Saturday, in Gwantu, Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, the OPSH Commander, described the summit as timely and aimed at reducing insecurity in the region.
 He explained that this initiative is part of a non-violent approach to addressing security issues within their operational areas.
Expressing concern over ongoing clashes between farmers and herders, Abubakar emphasized the summit’s goal of finding lasting solutions to these security challenges.
He lamented that last year, many farmers could not effectively cultivate their land due to insecurity, contributing to the current food shortage.
“We are entering the farming season, and farming is crucial for people’s livelihoods. Last year, insecurity prevented effective farming, leading to food scarcity.”
“We do not want a repeat of this; everyone needs to farm to help prevent youth involvement in crimes like kidnapping and armed robbery,” Abubakar stated.
He pointed out that the federal government has shown deep concern over the food shortage and stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for farming activities.
Abubakar identified key conflict triggers in the area, including underage and night grazing, farmland destruction, and cattle poisoning.
He urged residents to avoid actions that could incite conflict and highlighted that the summit offered a platform for dialogue to address these issues.
“In southern Kaduna and Plateau, conflicts often arise from underage and night grazing, farmland destruction, and cattle poisoning, which lead to a cycle of violence. It’s crucial to ensure farmers can return to their fields.”
 “We will do everything possible to end this cycle of violence,” he said.
Abubakar encouraged residents to forgive past grievances to promote a more peaceful society.
Maj. Mohammed Galadima, Commander of the OPSH Forward Operation Base in Gwantu, added that this initiative reflects a grassroots approach to addressing security challenges.
Mr. Bisala Malam, Chairman of Sanga Local Government, praised OPSH for its efforts to achieve lasting peace in the area.
 Represented by Mr. Istifanus Sarki, the council’s Secretary, Malam also expressed gratitude for the summit, noting that it would help ensure sustainable peace in the locality.
