By Israel Adamu, Jos
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to resettling internally displaced persons (IDPs) and restoring communities to their ancestral homes.
Speaking on behalf of the governor at a seminar organized by the **Conference of Autochthonous Ethnic Communities Development Association (CONAECDA)** over the weekend in Jos, Hon. Dan Kwada, the Senior Special Assistant on Middle Belt Nationalists, emphasized that the government is actively working toward fulfilling this vital campaign promise.
Support for Displaced Communities
Kwada highlighted progress made in resettling displaced persons and stressed the state government’s efforts to equip communities for a self-reliant future.
“In preparation for their resettlement, the state government has provided farming equipment to assist displaced persons in cultivating crops, ensuring they can return to a life of self-reliance,” Kwada stated.
He also urged CONAECDA leaders to continue fostering unity among ethnic groups to facilitate sustainable development, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.
Commendations and Collaborative Efforts
Dr. Zuwanhu Bonket, National President of CONAECDA, commended Governor Mutfwang’s resettlement policies and aligned the association’s goals with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of resettling displaced persons nationwide.
Similarly, Dr. Joseph Gwankat, National Coordinator of CONAECDA and leader of the Mwaghavu Development Association, praised the Plateau State government for complementing the association’s efforts. He lamented the devastating impacts of violence on CONAECDA’s members, noting that the group represents communities from 15 northern states.
Resolutions from the Seminar
A communiqué issued after the meeting, jointly signed by Samuel Achie, Conference President, and Suleman Sukukum, Conference Secretary, outlined several resolutions:
1. Strengthen community collaboration with security agencies to eliminate criminal elements.
2. Enhance community-based early warning and response systems.
3. Focus on providing adequate security to prevent further displacements in rural areas.
4. Enable displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes with sufficient security.
5. Partner with donor agencies to assist displaced communities, mitigating the effects of displacement on individuals and families.
6. Facilitate the reconstruction and rehabilitation of displaced communities.
7. Reactivate CONAECDA’s National Frontline Communities and Community Situation Rooms to manage the return and security of victims through the S3RP-approved project.
8. Activate the collection of community intervention funds for rebuilding displaced communities.
A Call for Renewed Commitment
The resolutions reflect a collective call for the government and partners to intensify efforts in addressing the challenges of displacement, fostering resilience, and ensuring that communities are rebuilt to thrive once again.
