Benue SEMA Lauds UNHCR for Strengthening Humanitarian Support for IDPs, Distributes Food, Non-Food Items

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) has commended the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for securing funding support from the Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF) to assist vulnerable persons in Guma and Makurdi Local Government Areas.

The humanitarian agency has also distributed food and non-food items to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State.
The Executive Secretary of SEMA and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Sir James Iorpuu, gave the commendation on Thursday during the monthly distribution of relief materials to IDPs across the 15 camps and host communities in the state.
Iorpuu appreciated UNHCR for its timely interventions and continuous support to vulnerable populations in Benue, noting that the newly secured fund is specifically targeted at assisting affected persons in Guma and Makurdi LGAs.
According to him, “This intervention will significantly contribute to improving the living conditions of affected households and strengthening humanitarian response efforts in these communities.”
The SEMA boss also appreciated Governor Hyacinth Alia for his sustained funding and unwavering support to the agency, stating that the governor’s commitment has continued to strengthen emergency response efforts and ensure prompt interventions for vulnerable populations across the state.
He noted that the consistent support from the Benue State Government reflects compassion, leadership and dedication towards improving the welfare of displaced persons and affected communities.
Iorpuu further commended the resilience, patience and courage displayed by vulnerable families despite the daily hardships faced in camps and host communities.
He said the determination of displaced persons to remain hopeful and united has continued to inspire humanitarian workers and aid organisations to intensify efforts towards supporting their recovery and rebuilding process.
SEMA also expressed appreciation to both international and local partners for their sustained collaboration in ensuring that relief materials reach those most in need, stressing that such partnerships remain critical in alleviating suffering and restoring dignity to displaced populations.
The agency further disclosed that it is collaborating with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on a Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) initiative aimed at strengthening local communities and emergency response structures across Benue State.
Iorpuu explained that the project, when fully implemented, would provide critical training for grassroots emergency volunteers, improve preparedness, build resilience and enhance community-based response mechanisms during emergencies and disasters.
He also appreciated Benue State Government agencies, members of the media, truck owners involved in logistics operations, loaders’ associations and SEMA staff for their dedication and sacrifices in sustaining effective humanitarian interventions across the state.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and integrity, pledging to continue serving vulnerable populations with compassion while ensuring that all relief materials and support reach the intended beneficiaries.