Yunusa Isa, Gombe
The TEKAN Peace Desk, through its Faith for Peace Project (F4P), has provided approximately ₦20 million in grants to 15 Community Based Organizations (CBOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and Faith Based Organizations (FBOs) in three local government areas of Gombe State.
The initiative aims to strengthen peace building, religious tolerance, human rights, and democracy within their communities, building upon the project’s previous successes.
At the funding disbursement event, TEKAN Peace Desk Coordinator, Mrs. Helen Philemon Haggai, highlighted the rigorous selection process for the 15 beneficiary organizations from six communities. She urged them to be selfless and dedicated to fostering peace, religious tolerance, and development in their respective areas.
“You underwent thorough documentation,” Mrs. Philemon stated. “We have collaborated with you through workshops and trainings on peace building, human rights, democracy, and religious tolerance in Nigeria, focusing on sustainable outcomes. This third-party funding is crucial to maintain our achievements even after our direct involvement concludes.”
Emphasizing the long-term vision, she expressed hope that the organizations would develop the capacity to independently secure future funding. “Our expectation is that you will develop proposals to seek funding. These funds are intended for the betterment of your communities, and we are optimistic that they will yield significant positive impacts in the coming years.”
Nenfort Suwa, the Chairman of TEKAN in Gombe, represented by Evans Leviticus, conveyed his enthusiasm, noting that the financial support would significantly contribute to peace and harmony at the local level.
He stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in the utilization of the funds. “I am encouraged by this gathering,” he said. “To the recipients, prioritize the needs of your communities over personal gain. Eliminate selfishness and act as true representatives.”
He further emphasized the inclusive nature of their mission, stating, “Whether you are Muslim or Christian, your faith should not be the primary consideration. Faith should not be a barrier to building stronger communities.”
Saleh Danburam, the Gombe State Secretary of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), represented by Usman Danburam, lauded TEKAN Peace for this initiative, affirming its potential to enhance religious tolerance within the targeted localities. He echoed the call for transparency and responsible financial management among the beneficiaries.
“Our organization remains open to future collaborations,” Mr. Danburam stated. “To the beneficiaries, remember that you will be accountable to God for how you manage these resources. Therefore, handle these funds with utmost seriousness and sincerity.”
Speaking on behalf of the recipient organizations, Laja Dankaka of the Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) assured the attendees of the proper and effective use of the funds.
“TEKAN has been inclusive of all religious groups without any bias. They have set a commendable standard,” Mr. Dankaka acknowledged. “They have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to be accountable and responsive to the needs of our communities.”
Biba Aji from the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations of Nigeria, Deba, expressed her gratitude to the TEKAN Peace Desk. “We have benefited from numerous training sessions that have significantly built our capacity,” she said. “The funds allocated to us will be utilized judiciously to achieve the project’s objectives.”
The event concluded by signing a memorandum of understanding between the TEKAN Peace Desk and the 15 recipient organizations, followed by presentation of cheques to beneficiaries across three categories.
The Faith for Peace Project is implemented in Gombe State by the TEKAN Peace Desk with co-funding from Bread for the World and the European Union. This initiative aims to empower local stakeholders in Kwami, Malamsidi, Deba, Kunuwol, Ɓilliri, and Kalmai to actively promote peace building, human rights, democracy, and religious tolerance.
