The British High Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that foster unity among Taraba State’s diverse ethnic communities.

The Commission’s Human Rights Officer, David Snelling, made this pledge in Jalingo during a monitoring, evaluation, and learning training session for select community leaders from Wukari, Takum, and Ussa Local Government Areas.

The training was part of Project Zaman-Lafiya, an initiative implemented by the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation with backing from the British High Commission.

Snelling emphasized the importance of sustainable peace and ethno-religious tolerance and acknowledge the roles played by community leaders.
He urged the participants to remain advocates for peace and to share the knowledge they have gained with their communities.

“The British High Commission will continue to support peace efforts in Taraba for more prosperous outcomes,” Snelling assured.

Speaking at the event, Gideon Para-Mallam urged governments at all levels to create dedicated budget lines for peace-building efforts.

He stressed that reliance on foreign aid is unsustainable, calling on local philanthropists and organizations to invest in long-term peace solutions.

He said, “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.”

The Project Zaman-Lafiya Taraba, which commenced in September 2024, is scheduled to conclude in February 2025.