MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA INTENSIFIES PEACE ADVOCACY AHEAD OF HARVEST AND YULETIDE SEASONS

Barkin Ladi/Mahanga, Plateau State — November 14, 2025

In a bid to strengthen stability and foster peaceful coexistence, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP), has embarked on a series of strategic visits to Christian and Muslim worship centres across Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The initiative forms part of the military’s ongoing non-kinetic operations, aimed at addressing lingering farmer-herder tensions and mitigating the risk of violence during the harvest and upcoming yuletide seasons.
On November 9, 2025, Major General Oyinlola addressed a Christian congregation in Barkin Ladi, emphasizing the neutrality and professionalism of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He reassured worshippers that the military is committed to protecting all citizens regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.
“The Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Police are your institutions, established for the collective good of all. We are here for you and we are part of you,” he stated.

He further highlighted the importance of community collaboration, urging residents to report suspicious activities promptly:
“We cannot be everywhere. If you see something, say something. We will respond no matter the time of day,” he said.
Condemning persistent killings in the region, the GOC vowed that under his command, OPEP will intensify operations to dismantle criminal networks fueling the crisis. “Lives are too precious. We will work tirelessly to stop the killings on all sides,” he affirmed.

Continuing his advocacy on November 14, 2025, Major General Oyinlola engaged Muslim faithful during Jumu’ah prayers in Mahanga, emphasizing patience, dialogue, and mutual trust. He noted that Plateau State has endured over two decades of recurring conflict, resulting in casualties among civilians and security personnel alike.

Highlighting farmer-herder clashes as a major trigger, he recalled how previous generations resolved disputes through dialogue and compensation, warning against the influence of “crisis merchants” who exploit ethnic and communal tensions for personal gain.
“When you have a problem, you are at liberty to approach a soldier. We are trained to address your challenges; do not resort to self-help,” he said.
The GOC cautioned that the harvest season historically witnesses heightened tensions, urging vigilance and immediate reporting of any incidents:

“From today, I do not want to hear of killings on any side. If anything happens, reach out to us immediately and we will act,” he stressed.
He also condemned those who profit from instability and called for collective resistance against such influences, reminding worshippers that Islam and Christianity alike are religions of peace.

Looking ahead, Major General Oyinlola announced plans to convene a comprehensive stakeholders’ meeting involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth representatives, and community stakeholders from all local government areas to consolidate peace efforts and strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
Reaffirming the commitment of the 3 Division and OPEP troops, he emphasized that no conflict is resolved through violence and urged communities to prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence as the best path forward for Plateau State.

Aliyu Danja
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division Nigerian Army