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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Relief materials distribution to people in IDP camp |
In a compassionate Easter gesture, the Benue State government has delivered vital relief supplies to internally displaced persons (IDPs), vulnerable groups, and Cameroonian refugees in Kwande Local Government Area.
James Iorpuu, Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, launched the distribution in Makurdi.
He emphasized Governor Hyacinth Alia’s dedication to upholding the dignity and welfare of displaced communities, despite escalating security challenges.
Official records now show 618,000 IDPs in Benue, with many still unregistered due to recent attacks. Iorpuu acknowledged persistent insecurity, particularly in border regions, but reaffirmed the state’s resolve to provide consistent aid.
The agency faced funding gaps in February and March, halting distributions temporarily. However, Iorpuu announced plans to visit all IDP camps for direct assessments and deeper community engagement. He also highlighted the near-completion of the Fr. Alia Conference Hall, a major SEMA project.
To ensure long-term stability, the state has:
Cleared hundreds of hectares for IDP resettlement.
Formed 200+ cooperatives for displaced farmers.
Allocated 280 hectares of farmland for sustainable livelihoods.
Iorpuu urged the federal government to enhance security and support durable solutions for displaced families.
The distributed items included:
- 2,015 bags of rice
- 1,305 bags of beans
- 455 bags of garri
- 1,505 cartons of noodles
- 126 gallons of groundnut oil
- Plus seasonings, sugar, and more
This initiative underscores Benue’s commitment to humanitarian aid while calling for national intervention to address root causes of displacement.
(NAN)