Non-governmental Organisations and Peace Building in JOS North Local Government Area: A Study of Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC)

Peacebuilding is essential for sustainable societal development, particularly in conflict-prone communities such as Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. However, government efforts alone may be insufficient to address complex security and conflict challenges, necessitating the involvement of civil society organisations. This study examined Non-Governmental Organisations and peacebuilding in Jos North, using Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC) as a case study. Specifically, it assessed JDPC’s peacebuilding initiatives, their effectiveness, factors hindering their effectiveness, and measures for improvement. The study adopted a social survey design using a mixed-method approach. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. From a population of 643,200 residents, a sample size of 400 respondents was selected using Taro Yamane’s formula and a multistage sampling technique. Quantitative data were analysed using frequency tables and percentages with SPSS, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings revealed that JDPC implements programmes promoting peace and justice and engages communities through radio outreach. However, its initiatives are constrained by low youth participation, mistrust, ethnic and religious tensions, political marginalisation, inadequate funding, limited political will, unemployment, insufficient youth inclusion in decision-making, and limited educational opportunities. The study concludes that although JDPC plays a significant role in peacebuilding, its initiatives require stronger community participation and sustainability. It recommends regular Christian-Muslim dialogue, youth leadership programmes, vocational training and peace education, alongside stronger collaboration between government and NGOs to enhance peacebuilding in Jos North and Plateau State.

Keywords: Peacebuilding, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC), Conflict Resolution, Jos North.