TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has expressed optimism that with the successful foundation laying ceremony of a hall at the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) headquarters, completion of the edifice would assist government to gather more data for appropriate intervention on issues of IDPs as well as plan better in returning those displaced to their ancestral homes within the shortest possible time.
Governor Alia who spoke at the foundation laying ceremony for a state of the art conference hall at the BSEMA headquarters in Makurdi, said the hall would not only be a mere structure but a symbol of collective commitment to the coordination and management of humanitarian response efforts in the state.
The state the governor informed that it has encountered different challenges ranging from natural calamities to man made, adding that a coordinating space for management of humanitarian cases was necessary for stakeholders to strategize, collaborate and brainstorm the true humanitarian situation, describing construction of the hall and situation room as apt.
According to the governor, “as we lay the foundation today,we are laying the ground work for a brighter and more resilient future for the people of Benue.
” The conference hall will not only facilitate coordination of emergency response efforts but will serve as a platform for capacity building,knowledge sharing and advocacy”, Alia informed the gathering,adding that the edifice would create a space for exchange of ideas, partnerships as well as provide solutions.
He appreciated the Executive Secretary, BSEMA, James Iorpuu and his team for their dedication and unwavering commitment to serving the people in face of challenges, adding that the project would serve as a testament to his hardwork and perseverance.
While expressing appreciation to the International Organization for Migration, IOM for their support in the building of the hall, the Governor added that government has a lot of value for the partnership and would always look forward to further strengthen the collaboration.
He called on other humanitarian partners such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR, and others to join hands with his administration to complete the noble cause, describing their expertise, resources and support as valuable.
The governor emphasized that it is the duty of government to ensure that those who have been forced to flee their homes due to insecurity return with dignity and build their lives in a safe and secure environment, and assured that his administration is committed to the safe return of IDPs and would continue to ensure the protection of lives and property, particularly those affected by herdsmen attacks.
In his comment, the Executive Secretary BSEMA James Iorpuu, noted that the edifice would serve as a pivotal hub for humanitarian activities by providing a conducive environment for sure discussions, capacity building sessions and emergency response coordination in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He commended Governor Alia and International partners for their unwavering commitment and support for the crucial project.
Speaking separately, the representatives of UNHCR, Saleh Okpaje and that of IOM, Laurent De Boeck, assured government of their continued support, describing the idea which will serve as hub for humanitarian activities as laudable.
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