The Bum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State has identified inclusive peacebuilding as a critical pathway to sustainable development, following a community-led initiative aimed at ending long-standing conflict between farmers and pastoralists.
The move emerged from a Social Cohesion Workshop facilitated by the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP), held on February 14, 2026, at Government Secondary School Bum. The engagement focused on how the implementation of community-owned peace agreements can drive peace, security, and development in Bum.
For over two decades, recurring violence between farmers and pastoralists disrupted livelihoods, weakened social trust, and slowed economic growth in the community. Residents say the conflict affected farming activities, livestock production, education, and access to basic services.
The workshop brought together farmers, pastoralists, traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youths, peace advocates, and members of the media, creating an inclusive platform for dialogue and collective problem-solving. Participants jointly developed implementation strategies for eleven existing peace agreements, shifting the focus from negotiation to action.
Speaking at the event, Nanribet Simon Longvwam, a 2025/2026 Fellow of COFP, stressed that peace agreements become meaningful only when communities take ownership and translate them into practical actions that support development.
“Sustainable peace is possible where diverse and previously conflicting communities develop peace agreements with clear, strategic implementation plans and the collective will to execute them,” Longvwam said.
He noted that the strong involvement of women and youths—often the most affected by conflict—was central to the success of the engagement, while traditional and community leaders reaffirmed their responsibility as custodians of peace and social order.
Longvwam added that the initiative reflects the peacebuilding vision of COFP and the enduring legacy of John Onaiyekan, whose lifelong commitment to interfaith dialogue continues to inspire community-based peace initiatives.
Participants expressed confidence that consistent implementation, monitoring, and accountability around the agreed strategies would not only prevent renewed violence but also unlock development opportunities, strengthen social cohesion, and improve the quality of life in Bum community.
