Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The British High Commission’s commitment to peace in Taraba
- How Project Zaman-Lafiya Taraba is making a difference
- Calls for Nigerian authorities to step up funding for peace
- The impact on communities in Wukari, Takum, and Ussa
British High Commission Stands Firm on Taraba Peace
The British High Commission is showing some serious love to Taraba State! They’ve made it clear they’re all in on supporting peace and unity through ongoing investments in local peace-building projects.
David Snelling, the Commission’s Human Rights Officer, spoke during a recent training session in Jalingo. He emphasized just how important sustainable peace and religious tolerance are. The training brought together community leaders from Wukari, Takum, and Ussa Local Government Councils.
Project Zaman-Lafiya Taraba: A Game Changer?
The training is part of Project Zaman-Lafiya Taraba, implemented by the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, with backing from the British High Commission. This project, running since September 2024 and wrapping up in February 2025, seems to be hitting the mark.
Snelling gave props to the community leaders for their hard work in promoting peace and assured them the Commission would keep supporting them. It’s all about that teamwork!
Time for Nigeria to Step Up!
Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam dropped some truth bombs, urging Nigerian authorities to put their money where their mouth is. He wants dedicated funding for peace-building efforts, instead of always relying on foreign aid. Hear hear!
“We can’t keep depending on foreign donations for peace initiatives. It’s high time the state and federal governments invest more in peace-building. Additionally, technocrats and philanthropists across the country must also set aside funds for peace efforts,” he said.
Local Impact: Real Change on the Ground
Stakeholders from Wukari, Takum, and Ussa say Project Zaman-Lafiya has seriously reduced communal and religious wahala in the area. People are setting aside their differences and embracing unity for the good of everyone!
The foundation has created a platform where different tribes and religious groups can come together, fostering development across the councils, the region, and the state.
More Than Just Words
Taraba State, located in northeastern Nigeria, has faced significant challenges related to ethnic and religious tensions. These conflicts often disrupt daily life, hinder economic development, and create a climate of fear and insecurity. The intervention by the British High Commission and local peace foundations is a crucial step towards sustainable stability.
Initiatives like Project Zaman-Lafiya focus on:
- Conflict Resolution Training: Equipping community leaders with the skills to mediate disputes.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Creating spaces for religious leaders to foster mutual understanding.
- Community Development Projects: Encouraging collaboration on projects that benefit everyone, regardless of background.
These efforts are essential not only for immediate peace but also for building long-term resilience and prosperity in Taraba State.