The Benue government has commenced the distribution of more than N1.2 billion of internally displaced persons (IDP) interventions that came in from Nigeria’s first lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and donors.

The secretary to the state government (SSG), Deborah Aber, made the disclosure on Friday at the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) headquarters in Makurdi.

Ms Aber is the chairman of the technical committee on the implementation of the interventions of Mr Tinubu, the Nassarawa State Government, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and the State Security Service (SSS) to the Yelewata attack victims.

Ms Aber said, aside from Mrs Tinubu, the Nasarawa State government, the United Bank of Africa, the State Security Service (SSS) and other contributions were also utilised.

Represented by Aondowase Kunde, commissioner for humanitarian affairs and disaster management, Ms Aber said the distribution symbolises hope, love, compassion, and renewed faith in humanity.

She added that in local government areas like Agatu, Otukpo, Ohimini and Apa, where there are no camps, the materials would be handed to stakeholders, including traditional rulers, to identify displaced persons for distribution to them.

Ms Aber emphasised that apart from the ongoing distribution of food and non-food material items, they have embarked on the construction of cluster settlements for them in Yelwata.

The SSG stated that the government has completed 26 houses out of 50 earmarked houses for displaced persons in Yelwata.

She explained that from the combined funds, essential food items such as rice, maize, beans, garri, vegetable oil, and condiments were procured, alongside critical non-food items including blankets, mats, toiletries, and many other household essentials.

Ms Aber conveyed the state’s appreciation for the remarkable humanitarian support received from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose donation of food and non-food items has significantly strengthened her response capacity.

The SSG pointed out that beyond the distribution of relief items, the collective donations have enabled other notable interventions aimed at improving the dignity and well-being of IDPs.

She emphasised that interventions included enhanced nutrition support for vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as the reinforcement of camp-level support services.

According to her, one particularly outstanding outcome of broader collaboration with partners is the commencement of a gigantic water treatment plant in Naka, Gwer-West Local Government Area.

“This critical infrastructure will provide access to safe and clean water not only for IDPs but also for surrounding host communities. It stands as a long-term, sustainable intervention that promotes public health, human dignity, and peaceful coexistence.

“These achievements align with the vision and commitment of Governor Hyacinth Alia, whose administration has consistently prioritised the welfare, safety, and dignity of displaced persons. Under his leadership, Benue State remains firmly committed to transitioning from emergency relief to durable solutions for displacement.

“To our IDPs, let me assure you that you are not forgotten. The Benue State government, through SEMA and in partnership with local, national, and international stakeholders, remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting you.

“I urge all stakeholders to uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and cooperation to ensure that the intended beneficiaries receive what has been provided for them,” he added. 

(NAN)