International Organization for Migration (IOM) has provided $1.1 million (approximately N1.69 billion) to aid Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State.
Ugochi Daniels, IOM’s Deputy Director-General, presented the donation during a condolence visit to Makurdi on Wednesday, specifying that the funds would support IDPs in Yelewata and Naka. Daniels emphasized that the contribution aligns with IOM’s commitment to assisting the Benue State government in facilitating dignified returns for IDPs to their ancestral homes or supporting their resettlement in new areas.
“IOM is dedicated to working with the state government to ensure IDPs can return home or settle in locations of their choice,” Daniels stated, stressing the importance of peacebuilding to address humanitarian challenges and foster development.
IOM has been actively engaged in Benue, providing essential services such as shelter, water, sanitation, hygiene, and livelihood support to IDPs. The organization has also facilitated resettlement initiatives.
In response, Governor Hyacinth Alia contributed $50,000 to support IOM’s efforts, expressing gratitude for the organization’s partnership. He highlighted IOM’s role in introducing biometric registration for IDPs and constructing a mega camp that offers dignified shelter, transforming vulnerability into resilience.
Alia noted the high number of women and children among the IDP population and stressed the need for stronger partnerships to ensure their safe return or integration into new communities. “My administration’s goal has always been to enable IDPs to return to their ancestral homes, and we are seeing progress toward this,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Daniels visited the International Market IDP camp to reassure residents of continued support.
