From Attah Ede, Makurdi

International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Operations (ECHO) yesterday in Makurdi, promised to work with the Benue State Government in its effort to tackle humanitarian crisis.

The Chief of Mission, IOM, Mrs Paola Pace stated this when she and others visited the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia.

Pace assured that they would continue to work with the state government and other development partners to alleviate the sufferings of those affected by the crisis and assist them to find peace.

“We have come to bring more partners to work for Benue people”, Paula said.

She commended the state government for demonstrating the will to find solutions and ways for the people to live in peace.

Also, Head of ECHO Mr Alexander Castellano said with proper collaboration, the emergencies, conflicts, and disaster situations would be effectively managed.

Castellano, who described Nigerians as strong and hard-working people, said ECHO acknowledged the difficulties the people go through when disaster strikes.

“There is dignity in helping each other. We thought we should bring this support to the people to work for humanity,” he said.

The Benue State Governor told his guests that his administration is committed to fostering harmonious coexistence between host communities and IDPs and towards this end, has empowered host communities with resources and social services to alleviate any strains arising from the influx of displaced populations.

Alia explained that in a bid to bolster safety for both IDPs and host communities, over 5,000 Civil Protection Guards of the state security outfit in collaboration with the Nigerian security agencies have been deployed to provide a critical layer of security against potential threats.

According to him, efforts are underway to improve access to markets for agricultural produce, ensuring that farmers receive fair value for their labour through developing infrastructure and facilitating connections between farmers and buyers.

“We’ re promoting sustainable and climate-resilient farming techniques to mitigate the impacts of environmental challenges.

“By adopting these practices, farmers can achieve better yields and contribute to the state’s overall food production.

“Recognizing education as a fundamental right, we have ensured that displaced children and youth have access to ongoing learning programs within the camps.

“We acknowledge the need for further improvement and are dedicated to expanding these efforts. We must acknowledge partners like UNICEF, WHO,  USAID,  PLAN International and Save the children International in this regards,” Alia stated.

He noted that the enormity of the humanitarian crisis in the state requires coordinated effort from international partners.

The governor thanked the visitors for their determination to help the state.

According to him, government had enrolled over 6273 IDPs into Benue Health Insurance Scheme while 70 hectares of land was earmarked for  construction of shelter for 5608 households with IOM assistance.

“We are providing displaced persons and communities with farm Inputs and training to ensure food security, economic independence and stability. 

“I therefore, call on IOM and other international partners for continuous support in provision of water and sanitation, camp management and coordination in health care services by expanding access to health care for Gender Based Violent victims and mental support as well as agricultural support.

“Educational opportunities for displaced persons and protection mechanisms for children is also needed,” the governor noted.