The Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, has said that the United Nations is planning to establish a University for peace in Jos, the state capital.
Lalong, made this known while he was delivering his New Year message, according to SaharaReporters.
He said that the university would serve as a hub for teaching and research in peace building and conflict management.
The governor also said that despite the recent security challenges raving the country, his administration had substantially reversed the negative perception of the state as a place to be avoided to becoming the ‘Home of Peace, Hospitality and Tourism’.
He said, “Just last week, we received the good news of the approval by the United Nations for the establishment of a Peace University in Plateau State to serve as a hub for teaching and research in peace building and conflict management.
“In the past seven and half years, I have had the rare privilege and honour to serve you as governor of this beautiful, blessed and cherished state which has a worldwide reputation as the Home of Peace, Hospitality and Tourism.
“These years have been very eventful just as they have been challenging. While we look back at the challenges we have worked through, we certainly have many reasons to thank God for the progress we achieved in these years.
“We did not only ensure the stability of the state in terms of peace, security and harmony but substantially reversed the negative perception of our state as a place to be avoided.
“Today, people are trooping into Plateau State to invest, reside, enjoy holidays or hold national and international conferences while taking advantage of our unique weather, hospitality and tourist attractions. We can proudly boast of a robust state where people of the 53 ethnic groups and different religions choose tolerance, dialogue, unity, vigilance and collaboration over hate, division, bigotry and sentiments.
“All these are indications that Plateau State has substantially regained its lost glory. These efforts are not that of the government alone but an inclusive one comprising the good citizens of Plateau State with support from other stakeholders. For this, I remain highly indebted to you all.”
