The Benue State Government on Wednesday expressed deep appreciation to the sustained efforts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), for its timely interventions and continued support to vulnerable populations in the state.
Specifically, the state government was thankful to the UNHCR for attracting funding support from the Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF), specifically targeted at assisting vulnerable persons in Guma and Makurdi Local Government Areas of the state.
The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Dr James Iorpuu, stated this during the distribution of food and non-food items to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across 15 camps and host communities in the state at the SEMA headquarters in Makurdi.
Dr Iorpuu who doubles as the Permanent Secretary of the agency, also expressed gratitude for the ongoing initiative by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to strengthen local communities in the state on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).
He said that the sustained funding and unwavering support of Governor Hyacinth Alia to the agency have continued to strengthen its emergency response framework and have enabled it to respond effectively and promptly to the needs of vulnerable populations across the state.
Dr Iorpuu announced that the consistent support of the state government remains a clear demonstration of leadership, compassion, and dedication to the welfare of displaced persons and affected communities.
He lamented the daily challenges confronting many families in the camps and host communities, stressing that the determination of the government to remain hopeful and united was indeed inspiring.
Dr Iorpuu commended all local and international partners for their sustained collaboration and commitment toward supporting communities in need of humanitarian assistance, stressing that the partnership has remained invaluable in ensuring that relief materials reach those who need them most.
The SEMA leader stated that the various interventions, when fully implemented, will strengthen local emergency management structures and provide critical training for grassroots emergency volunteers across the state.
“We believe this initiative will greatly improve preparedness, resilience, and community-based response mechanisms in times of emergencies and disasters.
He thanked all agencies of government working closely with Benue SEMA, the various media communities for helping to amplify awareness and support, stressing that the various support and cooperation remain the driving force behind every successful distribution exercise and humanitarian intervention carried out by the agency.
