By Ibrahim Yusuf Dembo Director of Media & Publicity to the Executive Chairman, Kanam Local Government Council.

27th September 2025.

The HD Center for Humanitarian Dialogue, in collaboration with the Plateau Peace Building Agency, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Kanam Local Government Council, Hon. Salihu Ayuba Musa, in his office at Dengi, the local government headquarters.

The visiting delegation was led by Dr. Yatsir Ahmad from Kenya, while the Plateau State Government was represented by Dr. Sam Godons, Director of Research and Documentation at the Government House, alongside the Project Officer, Chris Santos Lapa’am, and seven other members.

The visit was premised on the HD Center’s desire to engage directly with the Kanam LGC Chairman. The HD Team, an international non-governmental organization committed to conflict prevention and peace building, emphasized that their mission is neither influenced by money nor personalities. Dr. Sam Godons reiterated that Kanam holds a strategic position in Plateau State due to its borders with Bauchi and Taraba States. This makes it a focal point for peace building efforts, especially as the five local governments in the Plateau Central Zone have been identified for targeted interventions.

The Team presented insights into the Peace Corps Project and highlighted its achievements in mapping and strengthening existing peace structures across Plateau State. They also noted three major triggers of conflict in the region, particularly in Kanam:

1. Artisanal Mining

2. Land and Boundary Disputes

3. Farmers and Herders clashing.

According to the Project Officer, artisanal mining has become a critical issue, closely linked to criminality. Political violence has further fueled conflicts, particularly around traditional leadership stools, some of which are subject to litigation while others remain under community dispute.

The HD Team explained that they have put structures in place to prevent the recurrence of violence and to mitigate future conflicts. Part of their exit strategy involves closer collaboration between the Chairmen of Kanam and Wase LGAs to ensure proper border management and prevent security lapses. They emphasized that continued dialogue, facilitated through ALGON and the Peace Building Agency, is the surest way to address these challenges.

In his response, Hon. Salihu Ayuba Musa welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for their recognition of Kanam LGA’s role in peacebuilding. He acknowledged that the area has faced challenges of kidnapping, banditry, and cattle rustling, which led to the temporary closure of Kukawa Market to sanitize cattle trading. He stressed that “no family prospers without peace” and underscored the sacredness of peace to every community.

The Chairman further explained that despite joint operations along the Kanam–Wase border, saboteurs continue to undermine efforts to curb insecurity. Nonetheless, his administration strives to promote inclusivity and balance, which is reflected in his appointments. On inter-religious relations, he noted that Kanam rarely experiences serious issues since families often share dual faiths.

Regarding traditional institutions, Hon. Musa admitted there are minor disputes but assured that they are being addressed without prejudice. The HD Team commended the Council Chairman’s empowerment initiative for 1,000 youths, noting that such programs significantly contribute to peace and stability within communities.