Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state Thursday lauded Christian Aid Nigeria for the launch of a N500 million emergency relief initiative to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by armed herdsmen attacks in the state.
Represented by Director General of the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), Dr. Leonard Viashima, Governor Alia extended heartfelt appreciation to Christian Aid, its funders at the Start Network, and implementing partners for their continued humanitarian commitment.
He urged beneficiaries to utilise the financial and material aid judiciously.
The intervention officially rolled out at Daudu IDP Camp Two, targets three IDP camps across Makurdi and Guma LGAs.
Under the program, 1,500 displaced families will receive direct cash transfers of ₦109,000 each, made possible through newly opened personal bank accounts arranged by Christian Aid.
In addition to the cash aid, the initiative includes vital non-food items such as: mattresses, soaps and detergent, mosquito nets, and dignity kits (containing wrappers, towels, slippers, sanitary pads, and pampers)
Project Lead Chinelo Mokwe said recognising the mental toll on displaced individuals, Christian Aid Nigeria is also delivering psychosocial support.
He said the organisation is also carrying out Hygiene campaigns across the camps aim to prevent disease outbreaks through Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sensitisation.
He noted that Christian Aid, operating in 29 countries globally and 19 Nigerian states, continues to be a formidable force in humanitarian relief.
He emphasised the organisation’s ongoing efforts to build community resilience and enhance disaster preparedness.
Camp Manager Noel Numbe, speaking on behalf of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), acknowledged the profound impact of the support amid a rising IDP population.
The government praised the high quality of the materials distributed and reaffirmed plans for transitioning displaced persons from temporary shelters to permanent homes.