No less than N20 million has been distributed to Community-Based Organisations through Bread for the World and European Union co-funded project implemented by the TEKAN Peace Desk in Gombe State.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that this initiative is under the aegis of the Faith for Peace geared towards empowering local actors to promote peace building, human rights, democracy and religious tolerance in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the coordinator of the TEKAN Peace Desk, Mrs Helen Philemon Haggai, said the third part funding disbursement of funds to 15 CBOs, from three local governments would support them in conducting their activities.
She explained that the 15 selected CBOs went through rigorous processes, urging them to be selfless and committed to the promotion of peace and development.
Haggai added, “You went through rigorous documentation. We have served with you through workshops and trainings on peace building, human rights, democracy and religious tolerance in Nigeria, and we delivered what is sustainable. That is why we felt that the third funding is necessary.”
While urging for sustainability of the project, she added, “Our prayer is for you to write proposals to source for funding. The money is not for you but for the development of your communities. We hope that in the next few years, it will yield the desired outcome. Billiri, Kwami, Deba Local Government Areas are beneficiaries.”
On his part, Chairman TEKAN in Gombe Nenfort Suwa, who was represented by Evans Leviticus, expressed his delight, saying that the funding would go a long way in maintaining peace.
He urged them to be accountable and transparent in their spending, “I’m happy about this gathering, and I have been encouraged.
“To the beneficiaries of this third party funding, don’t put yourself first. In most cases, we always consider ourselves, take away selfishness, and see yourself as a representative.
“Whether you are a Muslim or Christian, your faith should not matter much. There is no need for faith bias. Your faith can’t be a barrier to building stronger communities,” he added.
Also, Gombe State Secretary of Jama’atul Nasril Islam, Saleh Danburam, who was represented by Usman Danburam, hailed TEKAN for the initiative, adding that it would ensure religious tolerance.
Danburam called on the beneficiaries to be transparent in their disbursement.
He said, “Our door is always open for further partnerships. To beneficiaries know that you will be accountable to your maker.”
Speaking on behalf of the recipients – Laja Dankaka of the Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria assured the gathering of proper utilisation of the funds.
“This organisation has carried all religious groups without sentiment. TEKAN Peace Desk is a pacesetter. You have trained us on how to be accountable and responsive to our communities,” he added.
Biba Aji from the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations of Nigeria Deba appreciated the TEKAN Peace Desk, saying, “we have undergone trainings. They have built our capacity. The money allocated to us will be used judiciously.”
