The Atjoda Hope Foundation, in collaboration with the Plateau State Government, has empowered 200 widows and honoured individuals and institutions for their contributions to peace and community development in Mangu.
The programme, held on 12th September 2026, brought together traditional rulers, government officials, religious leaders, women groups, civil society organisations and other stakeholders under the Foundation’s Mangu Widows Empowerment and Peace Ambassadors Awards Programme.
The Foundation expressed its appreciation to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his support and commitment to initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable people and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Each of the 200 widows received a 10kg bag of rice and ₦10,000 cash grant as part of the intervention designed to provide immediate relief and support small-scale economic activities.
Founder and CEO of Atjoda Hope Foundation, Chief Hon. Mrs. Josephine Abbas Dayilim, popularly known as Sarauniyan Mangu, said the initiative was aimed at restoring hope, dignity and confidence among widows.
“Our widows are not forgotten. This empowerment is our way of telling them that they still matter, that their lives have value, and that together we can rebuild peace in our communities,” she said.
The event also featured presentations on security and peace, women’s rights, entrepreneurship and healthcare.
Professor Shedrach Best, Vice-Chancellor of Plateau State University, Bokkos, spoke on “Security, Peace, the State and the Citizen,” other speakers included Hon. Olivia Dazyam and Mr Satmak Johnson Dashal.
A major highlight was the Peace Ambassadors Awards, which recognised individuals and institutions for their contributions to peacebuilding, security and community development.
The Plateau State Contributory Health Care Management Agency (PLASCHEMA) also committed to providing health insurance coverage for 100 women, aimed at improving healthcare access for vulnerable beneficiaries.
Representing Governor Mutfwang at the event, Deputy Chairman of Mangu Local Government Council, Hon. Nuhu Yakwen Yakubu commended the Foundation for its intervention and peacebuilding efforts, stressing the importance of collaboration between government and community-based organisations.
The Foundation appreciated the Executive Governor, the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Hon. Josephine Piyo, traditional rulers, government officials, partners, donors, NGOs, religious leaders, women groups, volunteers and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the programme.
The event reinforced the message that supporting vulnerable women and promoting peace require collective responsibility and sustained partnership across communities.
