The Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at Taraba State University has underscored the importance of collective action in preserving the state’s recent progress in peace and security.
The department said the forthcoming National Conference on Violent Conflict and Peacebuilding represents a shared commitment to long term stability and inclusive development.
Speaking on Thursday during a media briefing in Jalingo, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Dr. Buhari Shehu Miapyen, announced that the maiden conference set for December 8–11, 2025, will convene top scholars, policymakers, civil society groups, security agencies, and community leaders to examine both the roots of violent conflict and emerging peacebuilding initiatives across Taraba State.
Dr. Miapyen described the event as timely, noting that Taraba has long grappled with communal clashes, violent crime, and social tensions despite its ethnic diversity and natural wealth.
“For years, Taraba’s ethnic diversity and rich natural endowments have been overshadowed by security challenges,” he said.
The conference, organized in collaboration with the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management, according to him, seeks to generate evidence-based insights into the drivers and impacts of conflict in the state.
“It will also spotlight traditional and community-led methods that have historically helped reduce tensions, while strengthening networks among peace and security stakeholders”, he said.
According to the LOC, the past 20 months have seen “remarkable and reassuring improvement” in the security situation across Taraba State.
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Dr. Miapyen attributed these gains to the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas, whose policies have enhanced community engagement, deepened cooperation with security agencies, empowered youth, and rejuvenated local economies.
“The upcoming conference aims to build on these gains by generating fresh research, promoting indigenous peacebuilding practices, and offering actionable policy recommendations to sustain stability in the state,” he added.
The event’s themes, as made known by him, are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including climate-related conflicts, farmer–herder relations, governance and security reforms, gender and youth roles in peacebuilding, media narratives, displacement, and cross-border instability.
“By bringing together experts from across Nigeria and beyond, organizers say the conference will help bridge the gap between academic research and real-world policy implementation, ensuring that Taraba’s improving security trajectory is sustained,”. Dr. Miapyen said.
The LOC also urged the media to continue promoting unity and countering misinformation. “We must work together to present Taraba not as a theatre of conflict, but as a model of peace and resilience,” he said.
