Victims Support Fund (VSF) Launches its 2023-2025 Programme in Plateau State

In a heartwarming display of compassion and commitment to supporting victims of terrorism and banditry, the Victims Support Fund (VSF) has flagged off her VSF 2023 to 2025 Program themed “Improving Livelihood and Empowering Communities” with the donation of essential supplies valued at N250 million to survivors of recent attacks across communities in Riyom, Bassa and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State. This noble gesture comes as a beacon of hope amidst the daunting challenges faced by the affected communities, offering a lifeline to those grappling with the aftermath of violence and loss.

Lt. Gen. T.Y Danjuma (Rtd), Chairman of the Victims Support Fund, represented by Barr. Mrs. Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, Special Adviser on Operations and Programmes, in her opening remarks, articulated the significance of the VSF’s intervention.

“This is to officially flag off the programme of the VSF to improve the livelihood of communities in Plateau State as an immediate direct response,” she emphasized.

Acknowledging the recent spate of violence that has rocked the region, she underscored the urgent need for collective action and support.

“We are here to swiftly address the needs of those impacted by these attacks. Our interventions encompass food distribution as part of the Livelihood and Recovery component, Educational Support through providing materials to school-aged children, and training for teachers. We will implement income-generating programmes by distributing machines and building capacity to facilitate small business startups. Psychosocial Support for trauma victims and Peacebuilding initiatives are all parts of our thematic areas at the VSF. The consignment serves as a tangible demonstration of the VSF’s steadfast dedication to alleviating the suffering of those in need.” She stated.

In a gesture of gratitude and solidarity, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau lauded the VSF for its timely intervention, expressing confidence that it would provide much-needed succor to the victims of attacks. Emphasizing the state government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security, he reiterated his administration’s resolve to facilitate the swift return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.

“Our plan and desire are that sooner than later, our people who are currently displaced return to their ancestral homes,” he affirmed, underscoring the government’s determination to expedite the resettlement process.

Sunday Abdu, Head of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), hailed the VSF’s donation as a beacon of hope for the beleaguered communities. “This means a lot, this donation is the most impressive,” he remarked, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the tangible impact of the VSF’s benevolent outreach.

The VSF intervention will begin with the Livelihood and Recovery component with the distribution of essential food items such as rice, beans, groundnut oil, sugar, salt, and seasoning cubes in:

• Barkin Ladi (1,000 households)

• Riyom (1,000 households)

• Bassa (1,000 households)

As the VSF’s initiative takes root, it serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of collective action and compassion in the face of adversity. It is through such acts of solidarity and empathy that communities find strength, resilience, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.