Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has lauded the United Nations (UN), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the North-East Ambassadors Group for their unwavering commitments to the humanitarian efforts in Benue State.
Gov. Alia made the commendation at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House in Makurdi on Wednesday, when he received a high-powered delegation from the organizations led IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Laurent De Boeck who were in the state for a working visit.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Sam Odeh, the governor described their visit as a significant one. He thanked them for their immense support and said their visit to launch the Rapid Response Plan (RRP) underscored their unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts in Benue.
The Governor expressed his government’s desire to provide life-saving assistance and work towards the closure of IDP camps. He emphasized that the RRP initiative would go a long way in restoring hope for the displaced population, aligning with the state’s durable plan and commitment to aiding Persons of Concern.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on External Security, Col. Alexander Anshungu (rtd), noted that since 2010, Benue people have faced severe attacks by armed herders, leading to significant displacement.
Col. Anshungu (rtd), acknowledged the current government’s modest efforts aimed at addressing the humanitarian situation and commended the governor’s strategic security measures, which are yielding positive results. He invited the delegation to support the government in meeting the needs and aspirations of the Benue people.
The Chief of Mission, Mr. Laurent De Boeck, highlighted the importance of the Rapid Response Plan in providing durable solutions to displacement. He emphasized the dire health needs of the displaced population and looked forward to greater cooperation in achieving safe and sustainable solutions for displacement in Benue State.
He emphasized that the United Nations (UN), the IOM, and the North East Ambassadors Group share a collective interest in supporting the government’s efforts to bring peace and provide durable solutions to Benue State’s humanitarian crises.
