FIC Report (Plateau State) – In a bold humanitarian gesture, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, July 3, 2025, announced a ₦1 billion donation to support victims of violent attacks across rural communities in Plateau State. The announcement was made during a town hall meeting held at the New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos.
The fund, donated under the Renewed Hope Initiative, was sourced from private contributors and not government coffers, says the first lady. She added that the intervention is aimed at providing relief to vulnerable persons affected by ongoing violence, while also encouraging reconciliation and long-term development in the state.
“This visit is deeply emotional for me,” she said while addressing traditional rulers, religious leaders, women groups, and youth representatives. “Each time I hear of killings or disasters, my heart bleeds. Let this be the last time I visit Plateau under such painful circumstances. The next time I come, I want to rejoice with you and celebrate peace, progress, and prosperity”, she said.
She called on all stakeholders to take responsibility for restoring peace and urged citizens to embrace healing and unity. She also emphasized the need for the Plateau to rise above religious and ethnic divisions and focus on building a legacy of peace for future generations.
“As women, we nurture, not destroy. But we are tired,” she declared. “We appeal to the men—protect us. Let our farmers return to their fields. Let our children move freely across this country without fear. What legacy do you want to be remembered for? Let us hand over to our children a banner without stain” she encouraged.
She also expressed confidence in the state government’s leadership and prayed for divine guidance as efforts continue to address insecurity and promote development.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in his remarks, expressed deep appreciation to the First Lady for her compassion and support. He described her as a true mother of the nation whose concern for the welfare of Nigerians is evident through her numerous initiatives.
“Your Excellency, I have had the privilege of interacting with you closely. To me, you are more than the First Lady; you are a mother with a deep sense of purpose, committed to alleviating the suffering of Nigerians,” he said.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending the cycle of violence and restoring harmony across all affected communities. He noted that ongoing efforts, in collaboration with religious and traditional leaders, are aimed at achieving lasting peace.
Also present at the event was the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, who supported the humanitarian gesture by presenting 1,800 bags of 50kg rice. The items were handed over to the Plateau State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Her Excellency Barr. Helen Mutfwang, for distribution to vulnerable groups, especially persons living with disabilities.
In separate goodwill messages, key stakeholders including the Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba (represented by the Miskaham Mwaghavul, Da John Hirse); the Emir of Wase and State Chairman of JNI, HRH Muhammadu Sambo II; the President of COCIN, Rev. Amos Mozo (on behalf of CAN); and Professor Rahila Gowon (on behalf of the women), all thanked the First Lady for her kindness and called for a united effort toward peacebuilding.
They pledged their support to initiatives that promote healing, unity, and progress, aligning themselves with the vision of national renewal championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The event was attended by government officials, judicial officers, security heads, community leaders, and various stakeholders from across the state.
Signed
IDI, SALAMA PEACE,
Senior Information Officer,
For: Head of Centre,
FIC, Jos.
