The European Union (EU), in partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has donated N82 million to support vulnerable children and farmers affected by years of conflict in Plateau State.
The donation was announced at an event held in Jos, under the African Peace and Stability Architecture Programme, aimed at strengthening peace and improving the lives of those impacted by violence.
According to Dr. Sintiki Tarfa Ube, Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs at the ECOWAS Commission, the initiative is focused on restoring dignity and hope to people affected by conflict, especially children who have suffered displacement and trauma.
“This intervention, funded by the EU, targets food, education, and psychosocial support for children and farming communities across Plateau State,” Ube said.
Out of the total N82 million, N26 million has been allocated specifically to support children in conflict-affected areas. The funds will provide school supplies, food, and essential items to internally displaced children in Mangu, Bokkos, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Bassa Local Government Areas, all of which have been heavily affected by communal violence over the years.
Dr. Ube said the project is part of a broader regional peace initiative that ties humanitarian support with long-term peacebuilding and development goals.
“By addressing both the immediate needs and the root causes of instability, we are laying a foundation for peace and prosperity, not only in Plateau State but across the region,” she said.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented at the event by Mr. Dayi Timothy, Permanent Secretary to the Secretary to the State Government, welcomed the intervention and described it as timely and impactful.
“This initiative aligns with our administration’s first policy focus: peace and security,” Mutfwang said. “We appreciate the EU, ECOWAS, the Plateau Peace Building Agency, civil society organisations, and local authorities for their continued support.”
He added that Plateau State is committed to leading peacebuilding efforts while ensuring that humanitarian relief and long-term development work together to rebuild communities affected by violence.
Plateau State has faced recurring conflicts over land, ethnicity, and religion for more than two decades. These clashes have led to the displacement of thousands of people, destruction of property, and loss of lives — particularly in rural farming communities.
Children and farmers remain among the most vulnerable, often left without access to food, shelter, education, or psychosocial care.
The EU-ECOWAS intervention is part of broader regional efforts to promote peace and stability through the African Peace and Stability Architecture Programme, which supports crisis-affected communities with the tools and resources to rebuild their lives.
