The federal government has launched the Presidential Community Engagement Peace Initiative (PCEPI) to tackle insecurity in the North-Central region.

The initiative is the brainchild of Abiodun Essiet, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, in charge of the North-Central region.

Speaking at the event on Thursday in Jos, Ms Essiet said the initiative aimed at promoting peace and security in states within the region.

Ms Essiet said the initiative aimed to promote peace and social cohesion in the region, which has been plagued by banditry, farmer-herder crisis, insurgency, and kidnapping.

“The challenges before the region are more serious and far-reaching; the security situation has led to the tragic loss of lives and property.

“This incident demands a proactive and intriguing response, one that places communities at the corner of peace.

“This is why we are gathered here today to launch a new pathway through the Presidential community engagement on the peace initiative,” she said.

In his remarks, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Gyang Buba, called on Nigerians to pass down historical antecedents to the upcoming generation.

He said such a move would give a better perspective towards addressing the lingering conflicts in the region.

Inaugurating the initiative, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau said it would go a long way in promoting peaceful coexistence in the region.

Mr Mutfwang added that the initiative would also empower communities to take the lead in the peace-building process of the Tinubu-led administration.

“This initiative aims to empower communities to take the lead in conflict resolution and peace-building, recognising that sustainable peace must be local.

“It will also build bridges of trust between citizens through shared commitment and dialogue,” he said.

(NAN)