Benue State Begins Distribution Of N1.275 Billion Donations To IDPs

The Benue State Government has launched a comprehensive intervention program to support communities affected by violent attacks, especially the Yelwata community, which suffered a devastating assault in June. Funded by donations totaling N1.275 billion from individuals, state governments and corporate bodies, the initiative responds to attacks allegedly carried out by armed herders that displaced many residents and left them dependent on humanitarian aid. The Yelwata incident attracted nationwide sympathy, including a N1 billion contribution from the President’s wife, Senator Remi Tinubu.

According to Secretary to the State Government Deborah Aber, the disbursement will take place over one week, beginning with the distribution of food and non‑food relief items to internally displaced persons (IDPs). The government has also started constructing housing for a cluster settlement in Yelwata, and 1,000 displaced persons will receive conditional cash transfers. Beyond immediate relief, the program aims to enhance the dignity and well‑being of IDPs through improved nutrition support for vulnerable groups—children, pregnant and nursing mothers—and strengthened camp‑level services.

A notable outcome of the collaboration with partners is the inauguration of a water‑treatment plant in Naka, Gwer‑West Local Government Area, which will provide safe, clean water to IDPs and surrounding host communities. Under Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, the government remains committed to protecting the welfare, safety and dignity of displaced residents, shifting from short‑term emergency relief to long‑lasting solutions that promote public health, human dignity and peaceful coexistence.

The Secretary to the State Government expressed gratitude to all donors and partners who supported the humanitarian response in Benue State. The intervention program also includes activities such as food and non‑food material distribution, resettlement, agricultural support and education. These efforts aim to meet the immediate needs of affected communities while working toward sustainable solutions to displacement. With donor and partner support, the Benue State Government is taking significant steps toward rebuilding and restoring the lives of those impacted by the violent attacks.