By Chris Agabi
The Benue State government has so far registered at least 179,975 International Displaced Persons (IDPs) in various camps in the state.
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia disclosed this in Makurdi during an event to Mark the World Humanitarian Day, a statement by Caleb Senda, the
Communications Lead, Benue State Bureau for International cooperation and Developments (BICD), indicated.
The governor who was represented by Dr. Emmanuel Chenge said there are ongoing initiatives to provide essential support to the IDPs and refugees in the state.
He disclosed that the state has allocated land for the construction of 4,000 emergency shelters to resettle IDPs from three camps, aiming to restore stability and security for those affected by displacement
Gov. Alia emphasized that the state’s high level of commitment to humanitarian efforts reflects Governor Alia’s deep concern and dedication to improving the lives of displaced and vulnerable populations in the state.
He said his administration has made the resettlement and rehabilitation of IDPs a top priority.
The event brought together traditional leaders, prominent members of the Civil Society Organization (CSO) community, and key stakeholders in the humanitarian sector.
Hon. Aondowase Kunde, Commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, underscored the state’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of displaced persons.
He emphasized that the state’s humanitarian initiatives align with the Governor’s vision of creating a secure and stable environment for all residents.
Aondoaseer Leonar-Angelo Viashima, Director General of the Benue State Bureau for International cooperation and Developments, highlighted the critical role of partnerships in the state’s humanitarian efforts.
He praised the collaboration with organizations such as the International Organization for Migration – (IOM), UNICEF, UNHCR, and National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs NCFRMI, which have been instrumental in providing relief to vulnerable populations. Viashima detailed IOM’s role since 2016 in tracking and registering IDPs, identifying needs, and delivering essential aid, including hygiene kits and water infrastructure improvements. In 2023 alone, IOM’s efforts led to the registration of over 179,000 IDPs across six Local Government Areas in Benue.
Viashima also noted that Benue is hosting 9,318 Cameroonian refugees, adding another layer to the state’s comprehensive humanitarian response.
He recognized UNICEF’s and WHO’s critical contributions, with UNICEF supporting children through nutrition programs, clean water access, and education initiatives, and WHO focusing on disease outbreak response and training healthcare workers.
Sir James Iorpuu, Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) acknowledged the contributions of all partners and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Iorpuu emphasized that SEMA is continuously working to strengthen coordination among stakeholders to effectively meet the needs of displaced and vulnerable populations in Benue State.
BICD called for continued collective action from all stakeholders to sustain and enhance the efforts aimed at supporting IDPs and refugees in Benue State.
