More than 300 households in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State have received ₦100,000 cash and essential relief materials from the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to help them rebuild their lives after recent violent attacks displaced many residents.

The relief flag-off, held on Monday, November 10, was both emotional and hopeful as displaced families gathered to receive items including mats, mosquito nets, blankets, aqua tabs for water purification, cooking utensils, buckets, soap, and ATM cards preloaded with ₦100,000 each.

Representatives from the Red Cross, security agencies, traditional leaders, and local government officials were present at the event, which many described as a “fresh beginning” for affected families in the area.

In his welcome address, Rev. Davou Daka, a member of the Community Resilience Corps Committee, expressed gratitude to the Red Cross and its donors, noting that their support came at a time when many households were struggling to survive. “You have given us hope again,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Red Cross, Plateau State Training Officer, Mr. Mafeng Mark, emphasized that the intervention was purely humanitarian. “The purpose of this support is to help people pick up again, reintegrate into the society, and decongest camps. We are neutral and serve without discrimination. This is our little way of alleviating human suffering,” he stated.

He further appealed for continued support from well-meaning Nigerians and the government, acknowledging that access to some communities remains difficult due to insecurity and poor network connectivity.

Representing the security agencies, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) assured residents of ongoing efforts to restore peace in Riyom. “We appreciate this intervention and promise to do our best to safeguard our communities. But we need your cooperation — when you see something, say something,” he urged.

Traditional ruler of Riyom, His Royal Highness Dara Samuel Jok, the Gomre of Riyom, thanked the Red Cross for their compassion, describing the support as a “pathway back home.” “No matter how poor your house is, it is still your home. The Red Cross has given us a way to rebuild. Let’s protect what we’ve received and ensure peace returns,” he said.

The acting Disaster Management Officer of the NRCS Plateau branch, Mr. Yusuf Ibrahim, revealed that beneficiaries were selected through community-based volunteers who identified the most affected households. “The greatest joy is seeing smiles return to people’s faces,” he added.

Chairman of Riyom LGA, in his goodwill message, expressed mixed emotions — sorrow for the losses suffered and gratitude for the lifeline provided. “We are not happy about what brought us here, but today gives us hope to start again,” he said. “Riyom has one of the highest numbers of displaced persons in Plateau, and this support means a lot to us.”

The distribution ceremony also featured dance performances, children’s poems, and a symbolic naming gesture — as community leaders gave the visiting donors indigenous names “Simi” (Love) and “Fel” (Thank You) in appreciation.

For many residents, the gesture represents more than aid; it’s a chance to begin rebuilding. One beneficiary, Kangang Samson, shared that she plans to use the funds to settle her son’s hospital bills. “During the attack, my son was badly burned. This money will help me pay the remaining ₦50,000 and still cover his school fees,” she said.

Another widow, Chundung Danladi, whose children were killed in the violence, said through tears of gratitude, “This ₦100,000 is the first money I’ve received since the attack. May God bless the Red Cross for remembering us.”

Others, like Envou Markus and Tep Bitrus, said the intervention would help them return to farming and rebuild their livelihoods. “The Red Cross is selfless — they came to our aid even though they have no ties to us,” Bitrus remarked.

As Riyom slowly recovers from its painful past, one message echoed through the crowd — a renewed determination to heal, rebuild, and move forward together.