From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has appreciated the contribution of Medecins Sans Frontiers, MSF (Doctors without Borders) to the wellbeing of residents in Benue State over the years.
The Governor, who gave the appreciation during the MSF executive debrief meeting held at Government House, Makurdi on Friday, said their legacy will endure.
Medecins San Frontiers (MSF) is an emergency medical humanitarian organization which provides medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare.
The organization which launched emergency response in Benue State in 2018 is phasing out their activities and hoping to hand over their services to other actors as the acute emergency in the state has subsided.
Reacting to the development, Governor Alia said MSF has been a pillar of support for Benue communities providing critical healthcare services to thousands of displaced Persons and members of surrounding communities.
The Governor who said the exit of the organization highlights the progress his administration has made in reducing emergencies, directed the Director General, Bureau for International Cooperation and Development, Leo Angelo Viashima to define a state -led multi-sectoral sustainability plan.
He said the efforts of MSF have saved lives, restored dignity, and brought hope to many, adding that as they transit out, they should know that their legacy will endure and that the state is committed to building on the foundation they have laid.
In his exit presentation, the country representative of MSF in Nigeria, Dr. Simba Tarima expressed joy that the dispensation of emergency and desperation is no longer the case with Benue State.
Dr. Simba explained that they were leaving because they came for emergency and they now feel Benue is no longer in emergency dispensation.
Earlier in his remark, the Director General, Bureau for International Cooperation and Development, Leo Angelo Viashima said Benue State is now a member of Durable Solutions, advancing the need for the state to have development partners since it is no longer an emergency state.
Major highlights of the event was decoration of the delegates in Tiv traditional attire as a mark of honour and appreciation for their services.