COMMUNICATION AND POST CONFLICT REINTEGRATION OF ETHNO-RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

This study investigated the role of communication in the post-conflict reintegration of ethno-religious communities in Jos North Local Government Area between 2015 and 2024. Using a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from questionnaires and Key Informant Interviewees to explore how communication shaped trust, reconciliation, and coexistence among formerly divided groups. The findings shows that communication significantly influenced reintegration, with dialogue forums, peace-oriented media programmes, religious messages, and interpersonal interactions enhancing understanding, reducing hostility, and promoting forgiveness between Christians and Muslims. The study also established that poorly managed communication such as media bias, misinformation, political manipulation, and unclear government messaging contributed to renewed mistrust and tensions. Structural challenges, including limited access to communication channels, inadequate funding for community media, illiteracy, and language barriers, were identified as major obstacles to effective peace communication. Therefore, the study concludes that communication has been more constructive than harmful and remains an indispensable pillar of post-conflict reintegration in Jos North. The study recommended that community dialogue forums should be institutionalized and conducted regularly, rather than only during crises, to sustain trust building, deepen understanding, and strengthen long-term peaceful coexistence.