By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Agropastoral Integration for Peace and Sustainable Development, AIPASD, project in Benue state has been identified as a sustainable initiative that is well positioned to end the lingering farmers/pastoralists conflict in the state.

The initiative, aside focusing on changing the narrative of farmers/pastoralists relationship, also aims at increasing productivity through sustainable practices, and building mutual trust and economic interdependence.

Speaking at a One Day Sakeholders Engagement Meeting/Launch of AIPASD project stream of the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria, SPRiNG, programme in Benue state, by GoGreen Environmental Health Sustainability Initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer of GoGreen, Jackson Ameh said the event marked a significant milestone in the collective journey towards building a more peaceful, resilient and inclusive Benue state.

Represented by the GoGreen Technical Lead, Dr. Timothy Ikyume, he emphasized that the initiative was timely and critical, pointing out that “we are all too familiar with the persistent conflicts between farmers and herders, conflicts that have strained community relationships, disrupted livelihoods, and exacerbated poverty and insecurity.”

Ameh explained that “through AIPASD, we are working to shift the narrative by providing tools, knowledge, and platforms for farmers and pastoralists to coexist peacefully, increase productivity through sustainable practices, and build mutual trust and economic interdependence.

“Complementing this, we are also proud to introduce the Strengthening Peace and Advocacy for Conflict Resolution through Engagement with Traditional Leaders in Benue State, SPACE-Benue.

“This component recognizes the irreplaceable role of our traditional institutions and community leaders in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding.

“Through targeted training workshops, SPACE-Benue seeks to empower our peace actors with practical, culturally appropriate tools to mediate disputes and build bridges of understanding in our communities.”

The GoGreen Chief Executive pointed out that the engagement workshop served the dual purpose of informing and briefing “key government and institutional stakeholders on the objectives, scope, and planned interventions of AIPASD and SPACE-Benue, including expected outcomes for communities across Benue State.”

As well as “to facilitate alignment with ongoing state development plans and stimulate interagency collaboration that will not only amplify the impact of this project but also embed its sustainability beyond the life of the SPRiNG programme.”

While noting that peace and resilience could not be imported, Ameh observed that “they must be built locally, collectively, and intentionally. This is why we are here today, to listen, share, align, and co-create pathways to a more prosperous and harmonious Benue state.”