First Lady Remi Tinubu has made a significant gesture by donating ₦1 billion to support victims of recent violent clashes in Plateau State, presenting the cheque during a relief event held in Jos.
The donation, facilitated through the Renewed Hope Initiative, was handed over to Governor Caleb Mutfwang and community leaders, targeting assistance for 50,000 displaced persons affected by attacks that have claimed 200 lives and destroyed 1,000 homes since June 2025.
The funds, accompanied by 5,000 food packs and an additional N50 million for medical care, address a 30% surge in violence linked to farmer-herder conflicts, which have disrupted the region’s $2 billion economy.
Tinubu, who addressed a gathering of 2,000 survivors and local officials, emphasized the need for sustained support, announcing plans for a follow-up visit by July 15 to assess progress. The donation, the largest single contribution by a first lady in Nigeria’s history, has been lauded by 70% of beneficiaries, who received immediate relief including blankets and hygiene kits.
However, critics from 20% of non-governmental organizations argue that the aid, while substantial, falls short of addressing a $10 million funding gap for long-term recovery, with infrastructure losses estimated at N5 billion. The Plateau State government has committed a matching N200 million to rebuild 10,000 homes by 2026, while security forces deploy 500 additional troops to prevent further escalation.