The Plateau State Peace Building Agency (PSPBA) has celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of institutionalised peacebuilding across Plateau State.
The milestone event also featured the launch of the agency’s Knowledge Management Framework and Strategic Communication Strategy two key initiatives designed to strengthen sustainable peace through structured learning and effective public engagement.
Held at the Odilins Event Center in Jos, the ceremony brought together government officials, peacebuilders, civil society organisations, development partners, and security agencies in a show of collective commitment to peace.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Chris Kwaja, Special Envoy to the Plateau State Governor on Peace and Security, commended the government for its foresight in establishing PSPBA. He emphasised that peacebuilding must remain insulated from politics, justice must be central, and security agencies must operate professionally and without partisanship.
“Everyone is crying out for peace but no one is crying for justice,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Prof. Kwaja outlined critical reflections for the agency’s future, including the need for institutional independence, predictable funding, stronger engagement with local actors, and strategic coordination between governance, security, and justice systems to sustain peace in Plateau State.
Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Chundung Piyo described the 10th anniversary as a historic milestone, stressing that peace does not happen by chance but must be deliberate, structured, nurtured, coordinated, and sustained. She noted that despite past challenges, Plateau State continues to advance toward stability and reconciliation through collective effort and resilient leadership.
As part of the celebration, the Deputy Governor unveiled the agency’s 10th anniversary logo, symbolising continuity, resilience, unity, and hope for a more peaceful Plateau State.
Stakeholders, including Davidson Malison and Salis Mohammed Abdulsalam, expressed appreciation for the progress made over the past decade, emphasising that lasting peace must be rooted in justice, community engagement, and strong institutions.
The event also featured artistic performances, including a drama presentation by Griot of Hope and a spoken word rendition by Peace Parrot, Boda Sati, followed by a ceremonial cake cutting.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Mr. Bali Nanmak, Mrs. Suzan Ogbu, Navy Commodore M.A. Fana, Mrs. Helen Haggai, and Barr. Olivia Dazyam, all commending PSPBA for its decade-long contributions to peacebuilding in the state.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Elkanah Izam, Director of Administration at PSPBA, praised the agency’s commitment to translating the belief that “peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of dialogue, dignity, and opportunities” into tangible action. He called for sustained collaboration and continued dedication to building lasting peace across Plateau State.
