The Role of the Church in Conflict Resolution in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

Plateau State in North Central Nigeria has experienced recurring ethno-religious conflicts that have claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of residents. The church, as one of the most influential institutions in the state, is expected to play a meaningful role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. This study examines the nature and effectiveness of church-led conflict resolution efforts in Plateau State, focusing on the activities of selected mainline and Pentecostal churches in Jos North, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom Local Government Areas. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with structured questionnaires administered to 200 church leaders and conflict-affected community members, supplemented by semi-structured interviews with ten interfaith leaders and five state government peace officers. Documentary analysis of church peace initiatives and interfaith dialogue records was also conducted. Findings indicate that church organisations in Plateau State engage in peacebuilding through humanitarian relief, dialogue facilitation, and joint community farming programmes with Muslim counterparts. However, the impact of these efforts is constrained by political instrumentalisation of religion, weak interchurch coordination, and insufficient funding of peace programmes. Church leaders express a strong theological mandate for peacemaking but report institutional limitations in sustaining long-term reconciliation work. The study concludes that the church can serve as a transformative peacebuilding agent in Plateau State if supported by structured institutional cooperation frameworks. Recommendations include a Plateau State Christian-Muslim Peace Council co-chaired by church and mosque leaders.

Keywords: church, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria