By Amos Aar
THE BENUE State Government on Wednesday launched a ₦1.275 billion humanitarian intervention program support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Yelewata and various camps across the region.
During the inauguration event at the Cabinet Office in Makurdi, Barr Serumun Aber, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), highlighted the initiative as a pivotal move to offer relief, hope, and dignity to those impacted by displacement.
“I am honored to announce the commencement of this important humanitarian effort, which is designed to provide support to our fellow citizens in Yelewata and all IDP camps throughout the state,” Aber stated.
She emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, which has gained support from notable figures and organizations, including Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Nasarawa State Government, the United Bank for Africa (UBA), and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The primary goal of the intervention is to ease suffering, help restore livelihoods, and advance inclusive development as envisioned by Governor Hyacinth Alia. Aber assured that the funds would be allocated in a manner that ensures all beneficiaries receive the necessary resources to help them rebuild their lives.
She called on the Implementation Committee overseeing the Yelewata and IDP Intervention Fund to work diligently and create robust plans for the effective use of the funds.
The rollout of the initiative will occur in three phases: the first phase will span from one to six months, the second from six to eighteen months, and the final phase from eighteen to thirty-six months.
Aber noted that local artisans and suppliers would be engaged from within the IDP communities and the broader state in an effort to promote economic participation and empower local businesses. She also sought the collaboration of traditional rulers and local government entities to ensure the initiative’s success.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Aondowase Kunde, praised both Governor Alia and the SSG for their transparent approach to the program. He affirmed his ministry’s dedication to ensuring that the intervention reaches all designated IDPs, outlining plans to offer temporary shelters, access to clean water, mobile clinics, and enhanced security patrols in affected areas.
In Separate goodwill remarks, Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, and that of the Ministry of Health and Human Services, appreciated the united front in addressing the needs of displaced individuals in Benue State.
