From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (Benue SEMA) has distributed food and non-food relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across Benue State, including those in the Ikyogen Refugee Camp.
The relief items include 2,225 bags of 25 kg rice, 1,395 bags of 10 kg beans, 2,205 bags of 50 kg maize, 836 bags of garri, 2,894 cartons of noodles, 1,445 bags of sugar, 186 bags of salt, and 197 gallons of palm oil, among others.
The Executive Secretary of SEMA, Sir James Iorpuu, who briefed newsmen on Monday during the December distribution, expressed commitment to the welfare and well-being of vulnerable populations in the state, especially in meeting the needs of displaced families and individuals, ensuring that no one is left behind in their journey towards recovery and stability.
He noted that over the past months, Benue SEMA has taken decisive steps to enhance its emergency response and support systems for IDPs.
According to him, one of their key achievements is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) to provide effective and continuous healthcare services to IDPs.
He said the partnership fills the critical gap left by Médecins Sans Frontières’ (MSF) exit and ensures that the displaced population continues to receive the medical care they deserve.
“We are also in the process of finalising MoUs with the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) and the Benue State Bureau of Homeland Security. These partnerships too will equip Benue SEMA with cutting-edge technology, including a Command and Control Centre for real-time monitoring, surveillance, and enhanced security management.
“We have also relocated IDPs through our partner IOM from Baka, NEPA Quarters, and parts of Ichwa camps to the newly established transit camp at Mbayongo along Gbajimba Road. This relocation aims to improve living conditions and enhance the safety and security of our displaced populations while awaiting the soon-to-launch Benue State durable solution.”
Iorpuu announced that Benue SEMA has acquired new operational vehicles to ensure more efficient distribution of food and non-food items and to strengthen its capacity to reach those in need promptly and effectively, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on any form of diversion.
In response to the devastating impact of recent floods in Makurdi, Benue SEMA has distributed relief materials to affected communities, providing much-needed support to help them rebuild their lives.
He appreciated the state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for his unwavering support, leadership, and vision, which has continued to inspire their work, just as he expressed gratitude to partners, donors, and all stakeholders who have stood with Benue in this critical mission.
He further expressed commitment to continue working to restore dignity, foster resilience, and build lasting solutions for IDPs in the state.