By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –
Determined to strengthen the security situation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and as well ensure public safety, the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) has established a multi-agency situation room.
This facility, which is located at the Fr. Alia Conference Hall in BSEMA headquarters is expected to serve as a 24-hour information and response center for emergency situations which is aimed at enhancing the security of displaced population and ensure timely responses to both man-made and natural disasters across the state..
The Executive Secretary of BSEMA, Sir James Iorpuu PhD, who disclosed this during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday, emphasized the importance of adopting innovative, technology-driven solutions to tackle the challenges faced by IDPs, host communities, and the citizens of Benue State.
The BSEMA boss informed that the challenges demanded innovative, technology-driven solutions capable of strengthening the capacity to respond effectively and efficiently to emergencies.
“This partnership is timely as it seeks to integrate advanced digital tools into our operations, enabling us to better serve the people of Benue State.”
The MoU which the BSEMA was a partaker, the BSEMA boss described as a landmark moment in emergency management and humanitarian response in the state, adding that the initiative aligns with international standards, positioning Benue as a model for other states in Nigeria.
Iorpuu expressed gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people and appreciated the Managing Director of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company Plc, Hon. Terwase Gbande, and the Director General of the Bureau of Homeland Security, Retired Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan for their collaboration and support.
Commenting, Terwase Gbande revealed that Benue Digital Infrastructure Company Plc (BDIC) was established to transform the state’s digital landscape by developing, deploying, and maintaining cutting-edge digital infrastructure, describing the MoU as a strategic collaboration to enhance real-time monitoring of hazardous and emergency situations through linkages with other situation rooms across the state.
He noted that “this partnership is a step forward in achieving a sustainable and tech-driven future,” Gbande said, adding that it aligns with the goals of fostering sustainable development and digital innovation.
In his remarks, the retired Air Commodore, Jacob Gbamwuan, Director General of the Bureau of Homeland Security, noted that the MoU would help improve security in markets, IDP camps, and rural farming communities, as well as address border security challenges.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Aondowase Kund while commenting, described the MoU as part of a “Durable Solution” aimed at addressing Benue’s security challenges and called for strict implementation of the agreement.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Communication and Digital Economy, Hon. Kwaghgba Amande, highlighted the government’s efforts to leverage global and international summits to attract development ashe referenced the outcomes of the Digital Government Africa 2024 Summit in Zambia and an ICT summit in China, where Governor Alia and his team prioritized e-government, digital skills, fintech, and digital identity.
The Commissioner urged civil servants to eliminate absenteeism and truancy, as BDIC would commence monitoring workers’ attendance from January 1, 2025.
Director General of the Bureau for Special Projects and Infrastructure, Professor Gabriel Akpen commended Governor Alia for his commitment to ICT development and emergency management and assured stakeholders that the MoU would be fully supported to safeguard lives and improve the living conditions of IDPs and the general public.
