By Zainab Oyekan
The office of the Plateau Governor’s wife in partnership with UNICEF has commenced a 3-day workshop for250 trauma affected youths and IDPs in the state.
Inaugurating the Life Skill Training with the theme – Rebuilding from Within on Friday in Jos, Mrs Helen Mutfwang,the Wife of the Plateau Governor said the partnership with UNICEF targeted trauma healing and capacity building for youths.
Mrs Mutfwang said that the first phase of the training was done in 2025 with 250 youths and the second phase would be a continuation of healing, restoration, and hope.
“ I recall that earlier beneficiaries gained resilience, confidence, and life skills during the programme’s initial phase,” said Mrs Mutfwang.
She said that the programme responded to deep emotional wounds suffered by young people in communities affected by violence and displacement.
Adding that the initiative would evolve into economic empowerment under a “Healing to Earning” vision for sustainable livelihoods.
She , however, urged participants to commit fully, reaffirming government’s dedication to peaceful, productive, and prosperous communities statewide.
Mrs Mutfwang praised the governor for prioritising peacebuilding, youth development, and human capital transformation across the State.
She also commended UNICEF for consistent technical and financial support sustaining youth-focused psychosocial and skills-based interventions.
Dr Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field Office UNICEF, Bauchi Field Office, commended Plateau’s proactive leadership, describing the state as progressive, youth-focused, and committed to people-centred development initiatives.
Rafique said youths are the most affected in conflict settings, noting Plateau’s approach to healing and empowerment was exceptional and compassionate.
Adding that young people should be seen as rays of hope capable of transforming communities through health, hygiene, protection, and positive cultural change.
She reaffirmed UNICEF’s pride in partnering Plateau, urging beneficiaries to share knowledge gained and rebuild communities with confidence and responsibility.
Also speaking, the State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Caroline Dafur ,commended the Governor’s wife for her compassion and leadership in championing youth empowerment, while urging participants to embrace the opportunity responsibly and become positive agents of change.
Mrs Olivia Dazyam, Chairperson, Plateau Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission applauded the governor’s wife for supporting and empowering traumatised youths while encouraging participants to use the skills gained to advance equality, resilience, and peaceful coexistence within their communities. NAN
