Plateau Killings: Military task force deploys football diplomacy in Plateau

By Kingsley Chukwuka

The Military Task Force in Plateau State, code named Operations Enduring Peace (OPEP), has strategised peace building using the football pitch as a crucial non-kinetic instrument to bridge deep-seated divides.

Uniting former adversaries with the aim to replace hostility with teamwork and mutual respect, the military actively addressed the root drivers of communal tension, laying the groundwork for enduring security.

Speaking at the kickoff of the 6th edition of the Operation ENDURING PEACE Football Tournament, the Commander Operation ENDURING PEACE and General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army (GOC), Major General Maxwell Dangana, stressed that the military alone cannot secure long-term stability.

Dangana said while kinetic measures remain essential for safeguarding lives and property, true peace relies heavily on dialogue, trust, inclusion, and proactive engagement to resolve grievances before they turn into violence.

The current tournament which brings together 32 teams will represent a wide mix of communities and institutions spanning through Plateau State, Southern Kaduna, and parts of Bauchi State.

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According to the GOC, the broad participation reflects the region’s rich cultural tapestry, turning the event into an ideal driver for breaking down long-standing ethnic and religious barriers.

He said the tournament will give way to healthy competition and lasting cross-community friendships.

Dangana noted that the opening match between the University of Jos and the Jos North Local Government Area will heal the wounds that exist between them.

“Coming together on the field serves to rebuild broken trust, encourage open dialogue, and demonstrate that harmony is achievable despite past conflicts” he said.

He added: “View yourselves as key stakeholders in the region’s security network. Reject hate speech, violence, and political manipulation. Instead act as ambassadors of unity and tolerance within their hometowns”.

The GOC emphasized that security remains a shared obligation among military personnel, traditional leaders, religious figures, and civil society.

He commended the organizing committee, local councils, and sponsors for their commitment to youth empowerment.

“This tournament extends far beyond the final whistle. Victory will not be measured solely by the team that takes home the trophy, but by the barriers dismantled, the relationships restored, and the enduring bonds formed across community lines”, he said.

On his part, the Plateau State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Comrade Prince Miaphen lauded the military for consistently leveraging on its non-kinetic approach through sports to unite the troubled parts of the State.

Maphen said his ministry will continue to support the military’s efforts in sustaining the tournament.