Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has reaffirmed its commitment to securing a peaceful farming season in Kaduna State. This was demonstrated during the 2nd Edition of the Sanga Peace Summit held at the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Sanga.
The summit brought together community leaders, security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious groups to foster dialogue and cooperation.
The Sector Commander of FOB Sanga, Major Mohammed Galadima, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
“The need for peaceful coexistence cannot be overemphasized as it remains the bedrock for a bountiful farming season and sustainable development in our communities,” he stated.
Major Galadima reassured farmers of adequate security throughout the season.
“We have put necessary security measures in place to guarantee that farmers carry out their activities without fear or intimidation,” he added.
He stressed that early interventions and continuous dialogue will be the key strategies adopted by OPSH to prevent conflict and maintain harmony.
In his keynote address, The General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, Maj. Gen. EF Oyinlola, has stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence to guarantee a successful farming season in Kaduna State. He described the theme, “Peaceful coexistence towards a successful farming season,” as both timely and essential.
Maj. Gen. Oyinlola noted the positive impact of previous engagements, revealing that “available statistics resulted in a reduction of clashes and farm destructions by approximately 60 percent.”
He emphasized that dialogue, collaboration, and proactive strategies remain crucial for progress.
Highlighting ongoing security challenges, he said, “I am well aware of the recurring challenges that accompany the farming season, including farm destructions and attacks on livestock.”
He warned against reprisals, stating that retaliation would only worsen poverty and tear apart the social fabric of communities.
The Commander reiterated Operation SAFE HAVEN’s non-kinetic approach to promoting peaceful coexistence, stressing that early warning systems and improved response strategies were already yielding positive results.
“Operation Safe Haven will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone found abetting criminality in accordance with the law.”
Maj. Gen. Oyinlola concluded by calling on all stakeholders to champion peace in their communities, declaring, “Together, we can build a peaceful and prosperous future where everyone can live and thrive in harmony.”
Imam Mohammad Kabir D. Kassim, Chief Imam Central Mosque Jama’a, Kafanchan,
urged for peaceful coexistence through dialogue, mutual respect, and education. He warned against using religion and politics for selfish gains and called for sincerity, respect for authorities, and promotion of interfaith understanding.
Dr. Daniel Agba of the National Bereau of Statistics (NBS) emphasized that poor management of Nigeria’s growing population fuels challenges like food shortages, resource competition, and youth unemployment. He called for urgent action, including resident registration, community dialogue, and inclusive policies to prevent further crises.
The former Permanent Secretary of Plateau State, Dr Summaya Fadimatu Hamza, said lasting peace is possible if everyone plays their role, promotes inclusivity, shares lessons learned, and supports solutions like building ranches, ponds, and educating communities.
Comr. Jibril A. Tafida, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Coordinator Sanga LGA, praised Maj. Galadim for consistently promoting peace through initiatives that foster collaboration between herders, farmers, and other tribes, helping to restore lasting peace and address food security challenges in the local government.
The event also featured Cultural dance by the Sanga Dancers, Presentation of Surveniers, the commissioning of refurbished motorbikes, aimed at enhancing easy movement and quick access to remote grassroots communities, especially for security and peacebuilding activities. In addition, a football tournament was launched to promote unity and social interaction among the youth, with Maj Gen EF Oyinlola performing the official kickoff to mark the beginning of the tournament.
