Benue State governor Hyacinth Alia has disclosed that his administration is working tirelessly to reach a durable solution in which the term ‘IDPs camps’ will be history.
The governor made this known when he received the UN delegation led by IOM Chief of Mission Paola Pace and the Head of Office of the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) Alexandre Castellano in Makurdi.
He said, “Though we have made significant strides in tackling the security and humanitarian challenges bedevilling the state, the enormity of the crisis necessitates sustained and coordinated efforts.”
According to him, “Agriculture stands as the cornerstone of Benue State’s economy and is pivotal in our strategy to rebuild and empower our displaced populations. In alignment with ECHO’s emphasis on supporting agricultural livelihoods to enhance food security and resilience, we are implementing several key initiatives.
He maintained, “In collaboration with partners, we provide displaced persons and host communities with agricultural inputs, training, and resources to resume farming activities this cropping season. This approach ensures food security and fosters economic independence and stability.
“We are also promoting sustainable and climate-resilient farming techniques to mitigate the impacts of environmental challenges. Farmers can achieve better yields and contribute to the state’s overall food production by adopting these practices.”
The governor assured farmers that efforts are underway to improve access to markets for agricultural produce to ensure that farmers receive fair value for their labour. This includes developing infrastructure and facilitating connections between farmers and buyers.
“We will continue to provide basic services to the affected population while the state is also working tirelessly to reach a durable solution with a future where the term “IDP camp” will be relegated to history.
I look forward to the day when we can visit our communities, share meals with our citizens in their own homes, and recount how, together, we overcame adversity.”
Alia said, “The resilience of the Benue people and the unwavering support of partners like IOM, ECHO and other humanitarian partners will embolden us to transform the narrative from displacement to restoration, development, and hope.
“We earnestly call upon IOM, ECHO, and all stakeholders to deepen their engagement with us. Together, we will demonstrate that solidarity and partnership illuminate the path to a brighter future, even in the face of formidable challenges.
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