The Benue State Government (BNSG) has launched the implementation of a ₦1.275 billion humanitarian intervention programme for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area (LGA), and other IDPs in the state.
Barr. (Mrs) Serumun Aber, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), who performed the ceremony on behalf of the state government at the Cabinet Office, Makurdi, the state capital, said the initiative marked another significant step in the state’s collective effort to bring relief, hope, and dignity to displaced persons and host communities.
“It is with great honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today to flag off the official implementation of ₦1,275,000,000 humanitarian intervention funds. This initiative marks another significant step in our collective effort to bring relief, hope, and dignity to our brothers and sisters in Yelewata and the various IDP camps and host communities across our dear state”, the SSG said.
The SSG explained that the intervention was made possible through the support and collaboration of Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Wife of the President, the Nasarawa State Government, the United Bank for Africa (UBA), and the Department of State Services (DSS).
While reiterating that the initiative aims to alleviate hardship and restore livelihoods, the SSG assured that the funds would be transparently and equitably distributed to ensure that every intended beneficiary receives the necessary support to rebuild their livelihoods.
She, therefore, urged members of the Implementation Committee on the Yelewata and IDP Intervention Fund to demonstrate dedication and draw up effective plans for judicious utilisation of the funds.
The implementation of the initiative is understood to be in three tranches — the first covering one to six months, the second from six to eighteen months, and the third from eighteen to thirty-six months.
