The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has donated a specialised emergency response operational vehicle to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for easy mobility.

Performing the ceremony on Wednesday in Makurdi, Irene Omondi, UNHCR sub-office head in Ogoja, said the agency was determined to do more for the refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue.

Ms Omondi also emphasised that the partnership between the commission and SEMA was strategic and urged the agency to make judicious use of the vehicle.

“The partnership between UNHCR and SEMA is important one. It is good that we at UNHCR have committed to and supported refugees, IDPs and working together with the government in ensuring that we can continue with the work.

“I would like to commend the leadership; I had the pleasure of meeting the governor in 2023; his commitment on working on finding solutions together with us and other agency is exactly while we are here for today. 

“This car will facilitate among other things what this great team has already been able to do together with our team here. I know that we can even do much more for the IDPs and the refugees,” she said.

SEMA executive secretary James Iorpuu commended UNHCR for its continuous support of humanitarian services over the years.

Mr Iorpuu also commended the commission for its unwavering commitment and support to IDPs and refugees in Benue.

He stated, “I stand before you today with a heart filled with gratitude as we witness the generosity of our partner, UNHCR, for the donation of a brand new six-seater Toyota Land Cruiser to SEMA.

“Today’s occasion is not just a handover ceremony; it is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering support of our partners. 

“We are receiving a brand new vehicle from the UNHCR following our request for the replacement of the damaged vehicle as a result of the accident during my first official visit with my team to Jos, Plateau state, shortly after I assumed office.”

Mr Iorpuu added, “Sadly, the accident happened on June 26, 2023, along Nasarawa Egon, Nasarawa state not only damaged the vehicle beyond repair but also claimed the life of my police orderly. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace, amen.”

He said the vehicle was not just a mode of transportation but also a tool for hope, a symbol of solidarity, and a tangible expression of UNHCR’s dedication to enhancing SEMA emergency response capabilities.

The executive secretary said the commission had also recently facilitated the recruitment of dedicated staff to manage Cameroonian refugees at Ikyogen in KwandeLGA and all IDP camps in Benue.

(NAN)