70,000 Benue Households Lose Homes, Livelihood – IOM

The representative of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Laurent M.J. De Boeck has said that from the available data, over 70, 000 households in Benue State have lost their homes and means of livelihood following the crises that rocked the State years back.

De Boeck, who disclosed this during the foundation laying ceremony for the state-of-the-art conference hall at the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), also reiterated its commitment to provide necessary assistance to the humanitarian crises in the state.

In an address, the Benue State governor, Hyacinth Alia  explained that the construction of the hall will serve as a pivotal hub for humanitarian affairs and as well provide a conducive environment for strategic discussions, capacity-building and emergency response coordination.

According to him, the conference hall will be a space where ideas will be exchanged, partnerships will be forged, and solutions will be provided in humanitarian ways.

He said, “It is with great pleasure and a profound sense of responsibility that  I lay the foundation for a state-of-the-art conference hall for Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). This hall will not merely be a structure; it will be a symbol of our collective commitment to the coordination and management of humanitarian response efforts in our beloved state.

“Our commitment to the safe return of displaced persons remains unwavering. This administration is dedicated to restoring dignity and ensuring the protection of our people affected by displacement. We recognise the hardships faced by displaced individuals and families, and we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources for their safe return and reintegration into their communities.”

Represented by the principal private secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Chenge, the governor commended the efforts of the acting executive secretary of SEMA and his team for their dedication and unwavering commitment to serving our people.

“This conference hall will not only facilitate the coordination of emergency response efforts but also serve as a platform for capacity building, knowledge sharing, and advocacy. It will be a space where ideas will be exchanged, partnerships will be forged, and solutions will be provided,” he said.

The governor also  extended our gratitude to the International Organization for Migration  for their participation in this significant event.