The European Union (EU), in conjunction with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has donated a total sum of N82 million to support children and farmers who have been victims of conflicts in Plateau State in the past two decades.

Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs at the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Sintiki Tarfa Ube, who made the donation at an event in Jos tagged African Peace and Stability Architecture Programme, explained that the intervention was funded by the EU to restore dignity and hope to children affected by violence.

According to Ube, out of the total sum, N26 million has been earmarked to support children affected by the various conflict in different communities in the state to provide food, school supplies, and other essentials for internally displaced children in Mangu, Bokkos, Riyom, Barkin Ladi and Bassa Local Government Areas.

While flagging off the initiative, Governor Caleb Mutfwang who was represented by the Permanent Secretary to the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Dayi Timothy, commending the EU and ECOWAS for the timely support for the vulnerable children who have been affected by the conflicts within the state, noting that peace and security remain central to his administration’s development agenda.

“This initiative aligns with our government’s first policy thrust of peace and security. We recognize our partners the Peace Building Agency, civil society, and local authorities for their support,” Mutfwang said.

“Plateau State is committed to taking leadership in peace building while ensuring humanitarian relief and development go hand in hand,” he added.

In her response, Ube said: “At the heart of the humanitarian development, peace nexus is resilience.

“By supporting food, education, and psychosocial needs, we are laying the foundation for peace and prosperity, not only in Plateau State but across the region.”