Philanthropist Namleeb Konlan, through his Yennutoona Foundation, has provided crucial support to victims of recent violence and impoverished families in the Bunkpurugu/Nakpanduri District in the Northeast Region. His initiative has benefitted thousands, including those affected by the deadly conflict in Nanik and Bimbagu, as well as countless households enduring chronic poverty.
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A Timely Humanitarian Response by Namleeb Konlan
On June 21, 2025, with the assistance of family and friends abroad, Namleeb Konlan distributed essential items, including food, clothing, and cash, to over 30,000 households. This act of kindness follows a violent clash on February 28, 2025, over a chieftaincy dispute in Nanik and a related land conflict in Ngagma Gberuk. The violence resulted in the deaths of seven people, including 27-year-old teacher Nashiru Maijida, and left nearly 200 homes and food stores destroyed.
Many of the victims were displaced, with some fleeing to nearby communities in the Yunyoo District, Bunkpurugu, and even neighbouring Togo. Despite these efforts to seek refuge, residents of Bimbagu, who are reportedly responsible for the attacks, have continued to resist the return of the displaced.
Targeting the Vulnerable
Konlan’s foundation specifically focused on the most vulnerable groups, including widows, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and individuals branded as witches. The foundation also distributed farm inputs and cashew seedlings to promote sustainable livelihoods. Furthermore, selected beneficiaries received cash assistance to cover medical bills, school fees, and other daily expenses.
“This is a time of hunger in the Northeast—when early millet hasn’t arrived, food is scarce,” said Konlan. “So this food you see, we are giving to the blind, the crippled, widows, orphans, even lepers.”
Yennutoona Foundation’s Ongoing Impact
The Yennutoona Foundation, now celebrating 46 years of existence, operates with complete funding from Konlan and his extended family. Over the years, the foundation has empowered 60 women’s groups through agricultural projects, helping them earn an income from cultivating and selling economically valuable trees, such as shea and cashews.
“Our women now sell their produce, pay school fees, and feed their children,” Konlan proudly stated. “We’ve restored self-sufficiency to many homes.”
Call for Government Action
While highlighting his foundation’s accomplishments, Konlan urged the government to ensure the equitable distribution of national resources and to ensure that social intervention programs truly benefit underserved regions like his own. His call for fairness in the allocation of resources underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the area.
Gratitude from the Community
Residents, especially women and children, expressed their deep gratitude for Konlan’s intervention. “This food and clothing will help us survive this difficult time,” said Ama Dubik, a widow from Nanik. “We thank Mr. Konlan for remembering us.”
A Beacon of Hope for the Region
The Bunkpurugu/Nakpanduri District continues to grapple with long-standing challenges, including recurring conflict and a lack of mechanised farming, making initiatives like Konlan’s not just important but essential for survival. His dual focus on providing immediate relief and advocating for peace has become a beacon of hope for many in the region, offering both practical support and the promise of a brighter future.
