HANDING OVER SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT, PLATEAU PEACE PRACTIONERS NETWORK

PLATEAU PEACE PRACTITIONERS NETWORK

HANDING OVER SPEECH BY MR PWAKIM,JACOB CHOJI (PRESIDENT)AT TEKAN HALL ON 18 APRIL, 2024

The Protocol,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we gather here today, it fills us with immense pride and gratitude to witness this momentous occasion as new leadership takes the helm. It's also an opportunity to reflect on the journey we have embarked upon together since the inauguration of our leadership on December 20, 2021. We appreciate the efforts of our founding fathers who initiated this great vision. Successive leadership and the goodwill of great people, both young and old, have built upon the sweat of each of you, thereby sustaining the legacy. Today, as we hand over the baton of responsibility, we are reminded of the incredible strides we have made in advancing the vision of our dear network despite daunting challenges.

Throughout our tenure, our focus has been unwavering on the twin pillars of internal and external impact, striving to empower and uplift our members while making a tangible difference in the peace and security landscape of Plateau state and beyond.

We've diligently worked to enhance the skills and capabilities of our members. We've partnered with esteemed organizations to provide training sessions aimed at improving the utilization of Artificial Intelligence tools, promoting Freedom of Religion and Beliefs (FoRB), interreligious dialogues, research, and advocating for Restorative Justice. These initiatives have not only enriched our members' knowledge but have also strengthened the network as a whole.

We have leveraged our mandate to promote several engagements with security agencies, the government, members of the network, and other civil society organizations. From dialogues with "Operation Safe Haven" to hosting the assessment team from the defense headquarters, and events such as the International Day of Peace and International Women's Day, we've strived to be a beacon of peace and progress in our state.

We've actively assessed communities affected by conflicts, ensuring our actions are informed by ground realities. Our work in election observation, particularly during the general elections, bye-elections, and reruns, stands as a testament to our commitment to democracy and respect for human rights.

Our efforts in coordinating with various stakeholders, including government agencies, international organizations, and academia, have been instrumental. Whether it's the Open Government Partnership or meetings with ambassadors of countries, agencies, governments, and delegations, we've fostered partnerships that amplify our impact, which may reflect more into the future.

Through improved communication channels and media engagements, we've elevated the visibility and credibility of our network. We've published three position papers, participated in media platforms, and advocated for crucial issues affecting our society. Within the period, we have made the WhatsApp platform more habitable and expanded the scope; we have increased the utilization of the Web through the building and hosting of a website (plateaupeacepractitionersnetwork.org), Instagram, X (Twitter), Facebook, and email account.

On the administrative front, we've streamlined processes, revised and adopted our memorandum of understanding, and expanded our membership base. Our commitment to welfare, evident in our solidarity initiatives and support for colleagues in need, reflects the values we uphold as a network.

Undoubtedly, we've faced challenges along the way. From the need for a dedicated office space to finalizing our coordination framework with the Plateau Peace Building agency, there's still work to be done. We must address these challenges head-on, ensuring the sustainability and growth of our network.

Despite the hurdles, we stand here today with pride in our achievements. From a modest account balance to a thriving network, we've come a long way. Our journey has been marked by inclusivity, transparency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, as testified by members.

As we pass the torch of leadership, let us remember that our work is far from over. The seeds we've planted must be nurtured with care and diligence. We have full confidence in the incoming leadership to carry forward our legacy, the legacy of those who came before us, and lead with vision and passion.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the executive EXCOs, whose unwavering support and dedication have been the backbone of our success. Your great commitment, hard work, and dedication to our cause have not only inspired me but have also been the driving force behind our achievements and have been the pillars upon which our network has built its strength and resilience within this period. Your collaborative spirit has turned challenges into opportunities and conflicts into dialogues. We started as people on the battlefield, but we are finishing strong as friends, brothers, and sisters.

I acknowledge the friendship, leadership, and solidarity of each of our esteemed leaders in the network, especially those that have upheld the ideals of the network by supporting the seats of the Excos regardless of who is occupying it.

I must specifically appreciate all those organizations and individuals that made extra commitments beyond the payment of dues to support the work. Special thanks to those organizations and individuals who contributed financially; your generosity has been the lifeline that sustained our initiatives. Thanks to CFCD, TEKAN Peace Desk, MCC, JPRM, The Gedeon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, Alheri Agape Hope Foundation, YIAVHA, JDPC, JDPH, RURCON, and SGEIO that stood out as the 10 biggest donors during our leadership.

To those who offered moral support, your encouragement and rebuke have been the light that guided us through our darkest hours. Your contributions have been of great importance, and for that, I am eternally grateful. You have not only provided resources but also the moral support that is essential in our quest for harmony. You were there representing the silent majority. I was almost depressed when the whims of the loud majority seemed strongest, as I was amazed by what has become of peace practitioners who are to live by example.

I also want to acknowledge those who may have disagreed with our methods or decisions. Your perspectives have been crucial in ensuring that we continually strive to better our approaches and broaden our understanding, for it is through your diverse viewpoints that we forge a stronger path forward knowing that you are always there.

To the incoming President, I would like to offer my best wishes, and I pray your tenure will be marked by innovation, collaboration, and significant strides towards our shared vision of peace. I pray that you will lead with integrity and passion, and I hope to believe that under your leadership, our network will reach new heights.

As we look forward to a great network, let's remember that, “we are only pencils in the hands of the creator.”

God bless Plateau state, and us all.

Pwakim, Jacob Choji.

President, Plateau Peace Practitioners Network