The British High Commission has again reiterated its commitment to fostering peace and unity in Taraba State, through ongoing support for peace-building initiatives.
Speaking at s training organized by the high commission in Jalingo, Taraba State, for community leaders from Wukari, Takum, and Ussa Local Government Areas, the high commission’s Human Rights Officer, David Snelling, emphasized the importance of sustainable peace, and religious tolerance in the region, and the state at large.
The training session is part of project ‘Zaman-Lafiya, Taraba’, an initiative implemented by the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, with support from the British High Commission.
While commending the commitment of community leaders to peace advocacy, Snelling promised them the high commission’s continued support.
Supporting the position of Snelling, Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam, who is a key advocate for peace, urged Nigerian authorities to allocate dedicated funds for peace-building efforts, instead of relying on foreign aid.
“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 stated.
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Stakeholders from the three participating councils who spoke with our correspondent, said the project’s introduction to southern Taraba has significantly reduced communal and religious crises in the region.
They praised the foundation for fostering reconciliation among different tribes, and religious groups, contributing to the overall growth, and stability of the state.
Project ‘Zaman-Lafiya Taraba’, launched in September 2024, is expected to run until February 2025, with the aim of further strengthening inter-communal harmony, and sustainable peace in the region.
