By Sumaila Ogbaje
Participants of the Leadership and Strategic Studies Course 4/2025 of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, have undertaken a national study tour of Benue, gaining crucial insights into the drivers of insecurity in the state.
The Director-General of NARC, retired Maj.-Gen. James Myam, made this known during the Presentation and exhibition by the course participants on Monday in Abuja.
The theme of the study tour is, “Enhancing Security in Benue River Valley – Penacea for National Development”.
Myam said the study tour had provided them the opportunity to explore innovative strategies for peacebuilding, youth engagement, and socio-economic development.
He said the exercise was part of the Environmental Study Tour, which also includes local and world study components.
“The National Study Tour allowed participants to receive on-the-ground briefs and visit key centers within Benue to understand the causative factors of insecurity affecting the region.
“From their study, the officers are expected to make sound analyses and suggest practical measures to mitigate conflicts in the state.
“The officers’ reports highlighted Benue State’s vast agricultural potential. Often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue could play a critical role in national food security if insecurity is effectively mitigated.
“Recommendations from the study tour are expected to be escalated to appropriate authorities for action,” he said.
Myam said the tour also provided an immersive experience in Benue’s rich cultural heritage, saying it underscored that sustainable security goes beyond military solutions.
According to him, understanding local culture, social dynamics, and economic opportunities is essential to building resilient communities.
“By combining rigorous analysis of local security challenges with cultural and youth engagement, officers are better equipped to develop strategies that promote peace, inclusive development, and national stability,” he added.
Myam noted that the approach reflected a broader vision of security, which is one that integrates strategy, culture, and community engagement to build enduring peace in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Dr Shedrak Ukuma, Director-General, Benue State Bureau of Arts, Culture and Tourism, emphasised the role of arts and culture in promoting social cohesion and unity.
According to him, culture reminds communities of what they share, adding that through music, dance, storytelling, festivals, and heritage traditions, they create spaces for dialogue, mutual respect, and community pride.
He said that youth engagement forms a key part of Benue’s peacebuilding strategy, adding that the state recently signed a15 million dollars partnership to provide 300,000 jobs across Africa in creative industries, including music, film, design, craft, fashion, and cultural tourism.
“By creating opportunities for young people to express themselves creatively and earn livelihoods, we strengthen social stability and reduce vulnerability to conflict,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
