As the world observed the 2025 International Day of Peace, women and young people in Plateau State stepped into the spotlight, championing unity and dialogue as drivers of a peaceful society.
To mark the occasion, the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, in partnership with the Dialogue, Reconciliation and Peace Centre (DREP), convened a Peace Summit in Jos. Themed “Act Now for a Peaceful World: Women and Youth Leading the Way,” the event emphasized the pivotal role of women and youth in shaping inclusive and resilient communities.
Welcoming participants, Sunday Dombin, Director of Research, Planning and Documentation, praised the growing voices of women in peacebuilding. He urged attendees to boldly confront issues affecting women and youth, encouraging them to “speak, celebrate, and engage in meaningful discussions for peace.”
In the keynote address, Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur represented by Hon. Jiritmwa Goyit described the summit’s theme as a timely call to action in a world grappling with inequality, conflict, and climate change. Goyit emphasized that women, long excluded from decision-making spaces, must now be recognized as vital contributors to peace at home, in communities, and across the nation.
The summit featured two thought-provoking panel discussions.
“Women as Peacebuilders – Breaking Barriers” brought together Rev. Agwom Bliss, Sunday Dombin, Prof. Ruth Reuben, and Maureen Dakim, with Rejoice Shammah moderating. Speakers explored how women can dismantle systemic barriers and transform conflict into peace.
“Youth as Change Agents (Voices of the Future)” featured Matthew Tegha, Ali Ali, Lekur Patience Naanzem, and Aisha Mohammed Kabiru, also moderated by Rejoice Shammah. This session highlighted the influence of young people in driving social transformation and creating lasting peace.
In his goodwill message, Mujidang Sitdang, Regional Programme Manager of Tetra Tech (North Central), reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to building partnerships for peace, stating that “true progress can only be achieved through practical commitment to peaceful coexistence.”
Participants echoed this sentiment. Ali Ali, Acting State Coordinator of NACOMYO, stressed the importance of youth participation alongside women, noting that their combined energy could reshape Plateau’s future.
Mental health advocate Folafoluwa Asabi described the summit as both timely and inspiring, calling on women to uplift one another, practice self-love, champion mental health, and draw strength from role models like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
Bringing the event to a close, Jeremiah Bulus Gode, Programme Manager at DREP, expressed gratitude to speakers, partners, and volunteers for their contributions. He especially acknowledged Tetra Tech’s support, affirming that the insights shared would serve as fuel for ongoing efforts to nurture peace and unity in Plateau State.
