At the Plateau Peace Architecture Forum (February 2026 Edition), themed “A Decade of Building Peace Together: Learning, Institutional Memory, and Sustaining Peace for the Future,” stakeholders gathered on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Odilins Event Center, Jos, to mark 10 years of institutionalized peacebuilding and launch the Knowledge Management Framework and Communication Strategy of the Plateau State Peace Building Agency.
Delivering the keynote address, Chris Kwaja, Special Envoy to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Peace and Security, traced the agency’s origins to a 2016 vision aimed at building durable institutions and shifting from reactive crisis response to proactive peacebuilding. He noted that conflict has left many dead, displaced, and traumatized, stressing that “we are all casualties” in one way or another.
Kwaja emphasized that institutions must outlive individuals, urging greater investment in structures that preserve memory, lessons, and continuity. He raised critical questions about the agency’s independence and predictable funding, arguing that sustainable peace requires consistent financial commitment and insulation from partisan politics.
He further called for deeper grassroots engagement, stating that every conflict is local and solutions must be community-driven. According to him, the agency must bridge governance, security, and justice pillars, ensuring professionalism within security agencies and fairness in the justice system.
“Everyone cries for peace, but few cry for justice,” he said, underscoring the need for accountability and rule of law. Kwaja concluded that the future of peace in Plateau lies in strong institutions, inclusive leadership, research-driven policy, and collective responsibility.
Big conversations are happening, and they are setting the stage for something transformational.
The RexC4 team recently met with , CEO of , as part of strategic preparations for The Decentra, a major Web3 festival scheduled to hold in in April 2026.
The meeting explored collaboration opportunities and how Decentra can drive digital innovation and youth empowerment at the state level and beyond. With Web3 technologies reshaping global economies, the focus was clear: build sustainable systems that empower young people with practical skills, exposure, and access to emerging digital opportunities.
At the heart of the discussion was intentional collaboration, not one-off engagements, but structured partnerships capable of creating measurable impact. From blockchain education and robotics to decentralized innovation ecosystems, both teams shared a strong commitment to positioning Jos as a hub for digital transformation.
The Decentra is envisioned as more than just a festival. It is a movement designed to connect developers, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and students within a thriving Web3 ecosystem. By bringing together industry leaders and grassroots innovators, the initiative aims to unlock new economic pathways for youth and strengthen Nigeria’s digital landscape.
Grateful for leaders who believe in building ecosystems, not projects.
The Plateau Peace Building Agency (PSPBA) has commemorated its 10th anniversary with a landmark edition of the Plateau Peace Architecture Forum (PPAF), celebrating a decade of institutionalized peacebuilding and unveiling strategic frameworks aimed at strengthening sustainable peace efforts across the state.
The February 2026 forum, themed “A Decade of Building Peace Together: Learning, Institutional Memory, and Sustaining Peace for the Future,” brought together government officials, peace practitioners, civil society actors, security agencies, and development partners at Odilins Event Center in Jos.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the agency’s 10th anniversary logo and commemorative cake by the Deputy Governor of Plateau State. Her Excellency Ngo Josephine Piyo.
In her address, Piyo described the establishment of PSPBA in 2016 as a bold and historic step that institutionalized peacebuilding in Plateau State. According to her, peace is neither accidental nor automatic but must be deliberately structured, nurtured, and sustained through coordinated efforts including dialogue, early warning and response mechanisms, and consistent community engagement.
Reflecting on Plateau’s history of conflict and recovery, the deputy governor commended the resilience of citizens, the leadership of successive administrations, and the collective commitment of stakeholders that have helped move the state toward stability and reconciliation. She emphasized that peace remains the bedrock of development, investment, agricultural productivity, youth enterprise, and long-term security.
She called for inclusive participation in sustaining peace, stressing the need to deepen collaboration among traditional institutions, civil society organizations, security agencies, women groups, and youth networks. Piyo reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Plateau’s peace architecture and ensuring that the structures built over the last decade continue to evolve.
In her opening remarks, the Director General of PSPBA, Dr. Julie Sanda described the agency’s establishment on February 2, 2016, as a decisive shift from reactive crisis management to a structured, preventive, and coordinated peacebuilding framework.
Sanda paid tribute to government actors, civil society leaders, and community peacebuilders who laid the foundation for institutionalized peacebuilding in the state. She noted that over the past 10 years, the agency has strengthened dialogue platforms, facilitated mediation processes, supported early warning systems, and actively engaged traditional rulers, faith leaders, women, youth, and vulnerable populations.
Highlighting key initiatives, she pointed to investments in youth engagement through the Generation Peace programme and the rollout of strategic peace messaging across communities. She also emphasized the importance of knowledge management, research partnerships, and evidence-based policy formulation in sustaining peace gains.
Sanda acknowledged ongoing concerns surrounding the resettlement of displaced persons and stressed that sustainable peace requires collaborative action, data-driven decisions, and a generational commitment that transcends political cycles.
Delivering the keynote address, Special Envoy to Governor on Peace and Security, Prof. Chris Kwaja reflected on the 2016 vision that birthed the agency. He described it as a strategic departure from crisis response toward proactive and institutionalized peacebuilding.
Kwaja stressed that strong institutions outlive individuals and must be continuously strengthened to preserve lessons, institutional memory, and continuity. He advocated predictable funding, institutional independence, and insulation from partisan politics to safeguard the agency’s credibility.
“All conflicts are local,” he noted, urging deeper collaboration with grassroots actors to ensure community-driven solutions. He further called for bridging governance, security, and justice pillars to promote professionalism and fairness, adding that sustainable peace requires justice, inclusive leadership, research-based policy, and institutions that serve all citizens beyond political interests.
The President of the Plateau Peace Practitioners Network (PPPN), Nanman Bali congratulated the agency on its milestone anniversary, describing PPPN as a “midwife” in its birth. He acknowledged the founding members and peace actors who laid the groundwork for institutionalized peacebuilding and commended PSPBA’s grassroots structures across local government areas. Bali called for stronger collaboration among partners to deepen impact and sustain peace in Plateau.
Speaking on behalf of GIZ, Suzan Gokup congratulated the agency for its impactful work in conflict prevention and resolution. She praised the leadership of Sanda and highlighted the agency’s collaboration with traditional, religious, civil society, and international partners. Gokup reaffirmed GIZ’s commitment to supporting peace and sustainable development initiatives in Plateau and Nigeria.
Representing the Commander Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), M. A. Fana, Commander Sector 1, commended PSPBA’s leadership and grassroots engagement. He emphasized the importance of stronger integration between security agencies and peace actors, noting that professionalism and inclusivity are critical to overcoming divisions and strengthening unity.
Also speaking, NGOs Coordinator Mrs. Helen Haggai recalled that before 2016, civil society organizations operated independently in the peace space. She said the establishment of PSPBA strengthened collaboration between civil society and government, demonstrating serious political will toward peacebuilding. She advocated increased funding and deeper partnerships to sustain progress.
Barr. Olivia Dazyam, Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender and Acting Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, praised the agency’s commitment to gender inclusion. She highlighted ongoing challenges such as reintegration and human trafficking, urging continued collaboration to protect vulnerable groups.
As the agency marks a decade of structured peacebuilding, stakeholders agreed that the next phase will require stronger institutions, inclusive leadership, and sustained partnerships to secure lasting peace in Plateau State.
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assented to the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill, formally signing it into law.
The signing comes just days after the (INEC) unveiled the timetable for the 2027 general elections.
Sources confirmed that the ceremony took place at about 5:00 p.m. at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with principal officers of the National Assembly in attendance. The National Assembly had passed the amendment bill on Tuesday before forwarding it to the President for assent.
The amended law has reignited national debate over the electronic transmission of election results. Civil society organisations and opposition figures have consistently advocated for real-time transmission of results directly from polling units to INEC’s central server, arguing that it would reduce manipulation and enhance electoral transparency.
Tensions escalated last week when protesters stormed the National Assembly complex, demanding mandatory live transmission of results. The demonstration followed lingering concerns from the 2023 general elections, during which INEC’s Results Viewing Portal experienced technical glitches, sparking allegations of irregularities.
While the ruling (APC) has expressed support for the integration of technology in elections, some stakeholders maintain that regions with limited telecommunications infrastructure may require a phased or hybrid system. They argue that manual collation should be permitted in areas where electronic transmission fails.
According to INEC’s timetable, the 2027 general elections will be held on February 20 for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for March 6.
History beckons on March 8, 2026, as Mairana Community of Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, holds its first ever ‘Puus Mairana’ (Mairana Day) to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the people.
The Puus Mairana Festival will also celebrate the tradition, languag and history of the Mairana Nation through its traditional dances and music, cuisine, arts, and storytelling to foster unity, pride, and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
The highly anticipated Cultural Festival which is organized by the Mairana Community Development Association (MCDA) in conjunction with the Proudly Mairana Group, is also aimed at raising funds for the building of a Community Town Hall and the establishment of an Entrepreneurship Center that will benefit the youths of the community.
In a statement by the Leader of the Mairana Community Development Association (MCDA) at home and in the diaspora, Da Yohanna Ayuba Jwanchin, the Puus Mairana Cultural Festival will be a unique opportunity for sons and daughters of the Mairana Nation both at home and the diaspora to come together to give back to the community that birthed and nurtured them.
Emphasizing the importance of the “Puus Mairana Cultural Festival” both for the community and the people, Da Jwanchin noted that the establishment of an Entrepreneurship Center in Mairana will go a long way in equipping the teeming youths with the tools for self employment and development.
“The Puus Mairana 2026 Cultural Festival promises to be a unique meeting point where we will showcase our rich culture, music, dance, food, clothes and all that makes Mairana stand out,” he added.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja has confirmed the arrival of approximately 100 United States military personnel and related equipment at Bauchi Airfield, describing the move as part of ongoing defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by Major General , Director of Defence Information, the DHQ explained that the deployment followed deliberations during a working group engagement between a Nigerian delegation and its US counterpart.
According to the statement, the presence of the US military trainers stems from a formal request by the Federal Government of Nigeria seeking support in specific areas of military training, technical assistance, and intelligence sharing for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The DHQ emphasized that the deployment is both planned and strategic, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security framework and enhancing the operational effectiveness of its troops.
It noted that the collaboration would provide Nigeria with access to specialized technical capabilities designed to improve its ability to deter terrorist threats and safeguard vulnerable communities across the country.
Clarifying concerns about the nature of the deployment, the Defence Headquarters stressed that the US personnel are not combat troops but technical specialists serving strictly in advisory and training roles. All training activities, it added, will be conducted under the authority, direction, and control of the Nigerian government, in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The statement further disclosed that Nigerian troops will soon begin a series of joint training exercises and intelligence-focused cooperation initiatives with the US advisers. These engagements are intended to strengthen the capacity of Nigerian forces to identify and neutralize extremist groups seeking to destabilize the nation.
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Armed Forces of Nigeria pledged to continue efforts aimed at degrading and defeating terrorist organizations threatening the country’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
The DHQ also assured Nigerians of transparency in its operations, promising clear, accurate, and timely communication regarding the ongoing military cooperation.
Meanwhile, earlier reports indicated that the United States plans to deploy up to 200 troops to Nigeria to expand training and technical support efforts. Both Nigerian and US officials have maintained that the personnel will not engage in direct combat operations.
The expanded cooperation underscores deepening military ties between Washington and Abuja as Nigeria intensifies its campaign against insurgency and terrorism.
The Staff Multipurpose Cooperative Society (SMCS) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Plateau State chapter, has held its 17th Annual General Meeting at the INEC State, Miango Road, Jos.
The meeting brought together staff members of the cooperative society from across the state to review activities, assess progress, and discuss strategies aimed at strengthening the welfare and financial growth of members in the year ahead.
Representing the Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Plateau State, Mallam Mohammed Sadiq Abubakar, the Head of Department, Voter Education, Alhaji Aminu Isa, described the Plateau State Staff Multipurpose Cooperative Society as indispensable to staff welfare and one of the best in the country. He said its performance is not an exaggeration but a reflection of consistent growth and prudent management.
He highlighted the automation of transactions within the cooperative, noting that digitalization has strengthened transparency, accountability, and members’ confidence. He also congratulated the EXCO for their resilience and selfless service, attributing the society’s achievements to their dedication and steadfast leadership.
President of the INEC Multipurpose Cooperative Society Plateau State, Badi Musa Datong, commended members for their commitment and trust in the leadership. He said the renewed mandate given to the executive is a responsibility that demands transparency, accountability, and dedicated service to all members.
He highlighted the cooperative’s strong performance, including significant increases in surplus, dividends, and reserves, stressing that the society remains stable and financially sound. He assured members that all loan applications are treated promptly and that retirees have received their full entitlements without delay.
Datong encouraged members to increase their savings, noting that stronger savings will enable the cooperative to invest more and generate higher returns for everyone. He urged continued unity and active participation to sustain the society’s growth and long-term benefits.
The President further encouraged members to save more consistently, stressing that higher contributions would lead to better returns and strengthen the cooperative. He urged everyone to view increased savings as an investment in their future and the society’s growth.
The Head of Department of Electoral Operation, Isa Idakwo who represented the Administrative Secretary, Mary Lisa Uloko, encouraged members to be responsible and purposeful in the cooperative, highlighting that it offers empowerment, capacity building, and financial stability. He advised that loans should be taken only for clear, productive purposes and invested wisely, so members can grow their wealth and fully benefit from the cooperative’s long-term opportunities.
External auditor, Mr. Sheyi Vincent Adeoye from Y.G. Jugu and Co. confirmed that the cooperative’s financial statements give a true and fair view of its affairs for 2025 and comply with the Nigerian Cooperative Societies Act 2024 and generally accepted accounting principles.
Delivering the goodwill message, Mrs. Bot, Director of Cooperatives, encouraged members to actively participate, support officials, and increase their savings each year, stressing that unity and commitment to the cooperative bring long-term benefits for members and their families.
On behalf of all electoral officers in the state, Masekaven Kwaghan praised the cooperative’s leadership for their integrity and dedication and encouraged members to increase their savings, emphasizing that higher contributions lead to greater dividends and overall growth for the society.
Gideon Sule Boki, a pioneer member of the cooperative, commended the society’s growth and encouraged members to remain committed, actively participate, and support its leadership to ensure continued success and collective benefits.
Concluding the 17th Annual General Meeting, Badi Musa Datong announced the 2025 dividends, celebrating the cooperative’s achievements and rewarding members for their continued contributions and commitment.
Fast-rising music artist Qriztyle Deshe has officially released a powerful new single titled “Oh Africa,” now streaming on all major digital music platforms worldwide.
“Oh Africa” is a bold and inspiring anthem that celebrates African identity, unity, resilience, and pride. The song captures the spirit of the continent through compelling lyrics and captivating melodies, delivering a message that resonates with Africans across the globe and in the diaspora.
Speaking about the release, Qriztyle Deshe described the song as a heartfelt tribute to Africa’s rich heritage, culture, and enduring strength.
“This song is a celebration of who we are as Africans. It’s about unity, pride, and embracing our identity while sharing our sound with the world.”
The single is now available for streaming on leading platforms including:
Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Audiomack, And other major streaming services globally
Fans, music lovers, and supporters are encouraged to stream, share, and promote the song across social media platforms to amplify its message of unity and cultural pride.
“Oh Africa” is more than just a musical release, it is a cultural statement and a call for collective celebration of Africa’s beauty, diversity, and global influence.
For streaming, updates, and more information, listeners can access the song via the link below.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified the basis for the dates announced for the 2027 General Election, following public concerns over their proximity to nationally recognised holidays (Ramadan) and observances.
In a press statement issued on February 13, 2026, and signed by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Commission stated that the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022.
INEC explained that its regulations, in force since 2019, clearly stipulate that presidential and National Assembly elections must hold on the third Saturday of February in a general election year, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections are to be conducted two weeks later.
In line with these provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections.
However, INEC acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the overlap of the scheduled dates with certain holidays and observances that could affect voter participation.
The Commission assured the public that it remains sensitive to legitimate concerns and is currently consulting relevant stakeholders. It added that it may seek legislative intervention where necessary to address the issues raised, while ensuring compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election, promising to keep the public informed of any further developments.
The Chairman of the (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, has officially announced February 20, 2027, as the date for Nigeria’s Presidential and National Assembly elections, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on March 6, 2027.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Prof. Amupitan unveiled the Notice of Election alongside the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections, describing the announcement as a constitutional requirement and a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
According to the Commission, the February 20 polls will cover elections into the offices of President and Vice President, members of the Senate, and the House of Representatives. The March 6 elections will be conducted for Governors and Deputy Governors, except in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo and Osun states, as well as members of the State Houses of Assembly.
Prof. Amupitan emphasized that the publication of the Notice complies with the and Section 28(1) of the , which require INEC to issue the notice not later than 360 days before the election date.
The INEC Chairman dismissed recent speculation over election dates, noting that only the Commission has the constitutional authority to fix and announce official schedules. He cautioned against reliance on unofficial information circulated by individuals or groups.
INEC also disclosed that it is monitoring ongoing amendments to the Electoral Act currently before the National Assembly, but affirmed it would continue to operate within the existing legal framework until any changes are formally enacted.
Under the approved timetable, political parties are expected to conduct primaries within the statutory window, submit nomination forms within stipulated deadlines, and adhere strictly to campaign regulations, which mandate that campaigns end 24 hours before Election Day.
Highlighting preparations for the 2027 polls, Prof. Amupitan outlined key priorities including expanded use of technology, continuous updates of the National Register of Voters, strengthened collaboration with security agencies, and intensified voter education.
He urged political actors to maintain internal democracy, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and ensure peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process.
Describing the 2027 elections as a collective national responsibility, the INEC Chairman assured Nigerians that the Commission remains committed to delivering credible polls that reflect the sovereign will of the people.
