The Renewed Hope Global Conference has described President Bola Tinubu’s decision to visit Benue State as a defining move in Nigeria’s quest for peace, urging stakeholders to embrace genuine dialogue and reject divisive narratives.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Chairman of the platform, Ambassador J.K. Adebola, praised the President’s resolve to shelve a scheduled trip to Kaduna in favour of engaging communities in Benue where recent communal violence claimed more lives in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area.
“Under Renewed Hope, leadership is responsive and people-driven. The President’s choice to be present in Benue at such a critical moment is a show of empathy and statesmanship,” Adebola stated.
According to the Presidency, Tinubu is expected in Benue on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, for a town hall meeting with traditional rulers, political leaders, youth representatives, and religious figures from conflict-affected areas.
Adebola stressed that the Benue crisis should no longer be viewed through the lens of ethnic confrontation, warning against scapegoating and oversimplification.
“This is not a Fulani-versus-farmer narrative. This is a Nigerian tragedy. We commend the President for placing the people of Benue at the center of national attention,” he said.
The group called on leaders across political divides to support the peace initiative, while urging the Ministry of Livestock Development to fast-track ranching implementation and for the federal government to act on several white papers and reports gathering dust.
“We’ve had inquiries, panels, and expert recommendations. What we need now is political will and sustained action. Tinubu’s visit is not symbolic; it is a call to build a future where peace is possible,” Adebola said.
The Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference, which convenes weekly with ministers, advisers, and directors-general, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting reforms, security, and inclusive development across Nigeria.
Signed:
Jacob Ogunseye
Director of Publicity, Renewed Hope United Kingdom
