From October 11th – 15th, 2024, the Para-Mallam Peace Foundation organized a Pre-Trauma Counselling Support in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. This was aimed at exploring ways in which Pyscho-traumatic care and support could be provided to survivors of sexual abuse and violence. This impactful event was held in collaborative partnership with FoRB Foundation, UK through its Director of Operations, Mr. Matthew Jones and Mrs. Linda Opuene, a Clinical Psychologist and Trauma expert, who serves with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation brought together survivors from different communities: Borno, Adamawa, Gombe and Plateau States. There were hosted in a safe space for 4 days where they also shared their experiences and provided mutual encouragement to one another. The time helped them to addressed a number of emotional and mental heath issues as well experiencing spiritual renewal. A total of 11 survivors with a 5month old baby whose father was killed during the Christmas eve-attacks in Bokkos, Plateau State. There were nine women including three widows and 2 men both widowers.
A Special Time with Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State
One of the highlights of their visit to Jos, was their being hosted to a lunch at the Government House meal on October 12th, with the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. During the gathering, the governor listened attentively to the stories of resilience, courage and their on-going struggles as shared by the survivors. The Governor praised their bravery for surviving such untold hardships while in captivity for years; and during attacks in their communities. He commended their resolve in seeking healing and restoration from their traumas.
