Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state Tuesday said his administration is aware of the hardship faced by displaced individuals and families, and he is committed to providing support and resources for their safe return and reintegration into their communities.
He made this known during the foundation laying ceremony for the construction of a modern conference hall at the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) secretariat in Makurdi.
He said it is the duty of his administration to ensure that those who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict or disaster can return with dignity and rebuild their lives in a safe and secure environment.
He said the hall will not merely be a structure but be a symbol of the state’s collective commitment to the coordination and management of humanitarian response efforts in Benue state.
“The necessity for a designated space for coordinating and managing humanitarian affairs in Benue state has long been evident.
“We have encountered various challenges, ranging from natural calamities to man-made crises, underscoring the urgent need for a central hub where stakeholders can strategise, collaborate, and innovate to ensure a true humanitarian hub and situation room.
“Within this edifice, we envision a state-wide early warning and early response room, a vital component in our quest for a more responsive and efficient humanitarian system,” he stated.
Also speaking the acting executive secretary of SEMA, James Iorpuu, commended the governor’s steadfast dedication to the well-being of the people, which he said is evident in his proactive approach to disaster management and emergency response.
He said the conference hall will complement existing initiatives by fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, thereby enhancing the collective ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
“As we celebrate this milestone, let us also recognise the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving our goals. I call upon our esteemed partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and other UN agencies, to join us in this noble endeavor.
“Together, we can leverage our expertise and resources to ensure the successful completion of this conference hall, which will serve as a beacon of hope and resilience for the people of Benue state.
“This conference hall represents more than just a building, it symbolises our unwavering commitment to humanity and our determination to build a better future for all,” he said.
