Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has allocated 10 per cent of the state budget for the implementation and operationalisation of the recently launched Durable Solutions Action Plan to help address the challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in the state.
Governor Alia, who made this known in Makurdi during the visit of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Poverty Reduction, and Disaster Management, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, explained that the plan would also ensure that all IDPs and refugees are involved in the decision-making processes so that they can take ownership of their own solutions.
According to the governor, “the Five year Durable Solution Action Plan launched in Makurdi has prioritized the empowerment of IDPs and Refugees to improve their living standard and as well provide a comprehensive approach to addressing their challenges”
Unveiling the action plan, the governor explained that the aim is to also ensure the safe return of the IDPs to their ancestral homes.
“The Action Plan, also known as Durable Solutions, will acknowledge the importance of establishing permanent Integrated Forward Operations Bases for security men at all the flash points and develop the policy for the rehabilitation and resettlement of the IDPs.
Alia said, “The plan has the formation of 210 Farmers Cooperatives across all IDP camps in the state, benefiting over 4,200 IDPs. The beneficiaries are expected to receive extensive training in rice, maize, cassava, and vegetable farming, covering all stages of production.
“This programme is expected to provide IDPs with access to land, subsidized inputs, and improved seedlings, as well as increased yields and revenue. The beneficiaries will also have guaranteed market access with government-controlled prices and integration into the larger value chain.
“The Action Plan, also known as Durable Solutions, outlines a three-pronged approach to tackle the crisis which includes Return, Reintegration, and Resettlement.”
He enumerated the key initiatives under the Action Plan, which include community dialogue to foster peace, land donations from traditional rulers for farming and relocation, and establishing cooperatives to support IDPs as they transition back to their homes.
Governor Alia, who emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the governments and the international community, also appealed for support from various stakeholders, including the Federal Government, UN agencies, and local organizations, to ensure the success of the plan.
“I urge all partners to coordinate their efforts through the Benue Durable Solutions Taskforce, to strategize on a unified approach to the crisis.”
Earlier, the Humanitarian Minister who commended Governor Alia for the launch of the durable solutions, said “I am so impressed by your resilience, focus, and commitment for the well-being of the displaced population.’’
