In a order to address the humanitarian crisis in Benue state, a high-level delegation from the state government Thursday met with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The meeting, led by Sir James of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) and Leo-Angelo Viashima of the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), was aimed at discussing solutions for the over 500,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state.
The discussions centered on providing urgent support and sustainable interventions, particularly in the Local Government Areas of Agatu, Kwande, Gwer West, and Logo.
Benue SEMA Acting Executive Secretary Sir James Iorpuu, highlighted the need for swift and coordinated actions to ensure lasting impact, while BICD sought additional funding to bolster response efforts.
Sir Iorpuu said there is ongoing efforts to assess the gaps in IDP care and the pressing need for humanitarian resources.
The Director General of BICD said his office is actively seeking additional funding to bolster response efforts and broaden the scope of sustainable assistance.
Leo-Angelo Viashima emphasised that increased international support would be instrumental in delivering immediate relief to IDPs, addressing pressing needs like shelter, food security, healthcare, and essential services.
He further noted that such contributions would lay the groundwork for durable solutions, supporting IDPs in rebuilding their lives and securing long-term resilience within their communities.
Ms. Paola Pace, Chief of Mission IOM, said insecurity, intercommunal conflicts, and climate-induced disasters remain major drivers of displacement across Nigeria.
“An assessment by IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) estimates that more than half a million people are displaced and living in camps and camp-like settings across 17 local government areas of Benue State.”
Ms. Paola Pace, underscored the organisation’s commitment to collaborating with Benue State’s leadership to provide both immediate humanitarian aid and strengthen local systems for sustainable development.
“This partnership aims to meet the immediate needs of vulnerable populations and empower local communities,” she added.
It could be noted that Benue State government and IOM have previously collaborated on initiatives, including the Rapid Response Fund project, launched in June 2024, which provides lifesaving multisectoral intervention to crisis-affected populations in Benue State.