Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia
By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –
Determined to provide sustainable solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and their host communities, the Benue State Government in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has initiated a joint empowerment and livelihood programme.
Following this initiative, a delegation led by the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), Sir James Iorpuu has visited the IDP camps in Anyiin and Ugba, Logo Local Government Area, to conduct an impact and needs assessment.
The Executive Secretary, who spoke during the visit, emphasized the importance of livelihood opportunities as a cornerstone of the state’s durable solutions strategy under the leadership of Governor, Hyacinth Alia.
The assessment, according to him aimed to gather firsthand information on the immediate needs of the IDPs to guide targeted interventions.
He appreciated IOM and other humanitarian partners for their unwavering commitment to supporting displaced persons in the state adding that the collaboration with IOM’s Rapid Response Fund would strengthen efforts to address the challenges faced by IDPs and their host communities.
Senior Emergency Response Coordinator, Mr. Hamdan Mohamed, who represented IOM reiterated the organization’s dedication to robust collaboration with BSEMA, explaining that the needs assessment would uncover vital insights to shape future interventions.
The high-powered delegation also included the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Aondowase Kunde, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, Survey, Mr. Charles Ikyaave.
The BSEMA boss presented a sewing machine to Mr. Mdanu Philip Nongo, a physically challenged IDP at the Ugba camp, symbolizing the commitment to empowering vulnerable individuals.
This initiative underscores the shared resolve of Benue State Government and IOM to create sustainable livelihood opportunities, fostering hope and self-reliance among displaced individuals and their host communities.
