EU, UN , Foundation Empower 300 Vulnerable Persons In Borno

In an effort to strengthen reintegration, rehabilitation, reconciliation, and sustainable peace among persons formerly associated with non-state armed groups, the Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development has distributed livelihood starter kits to 300 beneficiaries in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The initiative, which also featured a cultural festival, is aimed at promoting economic empowerment, social cohesion, and peaceful coexistence in communities affected by years of armed conflict.

The Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development, in partnership with the European Union (EU), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and other development partners, presented the livelihood starter kits to the 300 beneficiaries during a graduation ceremony and cultural festival held on Monday in Gwoza Local Government Area.

The Executive Director All Amin Foundation and Development, Hamsatu Allamin , said the intervention is part of the EU and UNDP-funded Disengagement, Review, Reintegration and Reconciliation (DRRR) programme, which is designed to facilitate the socio-economic reintegration of vulnerable groups, including persons formerly associated with non-state armed groups, internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, and members of the host communities.

She added that the programme is intended to provide beneficiaries with sustainable means of livelihood, reduce economic vulnerability, and strengthen community acceptance for lasting peace and stability.

She explained that the livelihood support was carefully tailored to the specific needs and vocational skills of each beneficiary to ensure long-term economic sustainability.

According to her, the initiative reflects the Foundation’s commitment to empowering communities while fostering reconciliation and rebuilding trust among conflict-affected populations.

Hamsatu Allamin expressed appreciation to the Emir of Gwoza, the Gwoza Local Government Council, community leaders, traditional institutions, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their unwavering support toward the successful implementation of the programme and their continued commitment to peacebuilding and development.

She noted that the current phase of the intervention would benefit 300 people, acknowledging that Gwoza and neighbouring Bama Local Government Areas remain among the communities most affected by activities of insurgents over the years.

Emir of Gwoza, Mohammed Shehu Idrisa Timta, commended the Allamin Foundation and its development partners for bringing the programme to the area.

He noted that although not everyone could benefit during the current phase, additional beneficiaries would be captured in subsequent interventions.

The traditional ruler urged residents to remain patient, peaceful, and appreciative of the ongoing support, emphasizing that such interventions are designed to gradually reach more vulnerable members of the community.

He encouraged the beneficiaries to make productive use of the livelihood kits by establishing sustainable businesses capable of improving their standard of living and contributing to the local economy.

According to the programme official, the distribution covered 300 beneficiaries, comprising 100 returnees and 200 members of the host communities.

Of the total beneficiaries, 176 were women while 124 were men, reflecting the programme’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion and supporting vulnerable households