Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
Benue State Governor, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, on Friday hosted a high-level delegation from the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) Nigeria, led by Deputy Country Director Mr. Guy Adoua, as part of efforts to deepen collaboration on addressing the challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state.
The meeting, which followed the governor’s earlier request for enhanced partnership, centered on practical strategies for the sustainable resettlement of displaced communities. Discussions highlighted key priority areas including the rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure, provision of livelihood support, shelter assistance, and agricultural development initiatives aimed at restoring self-reliance among affected populations.
Governor Alia and the WFP team reaffirmed their shared commitment to delivering durable solutions that go beyond temporary relief. The partnership seeks to ensure that displaced persons and host communities can regain stability, rebuild their lives, and access meaningful economic opportunities.
The visit underscores the governor’s proactive engagement with international partners to tackle one of the state’s most pressing humanitarian and developmental issues. Benue has for years grappled with displacement caused by farmer-herder conflicts, communal clashes, and other security challenges, leaving thousands of residents in camps and informal settlements with limited access to basic services and means of sustenance.
Both sides expressed optimism that the strengthened alliance would accelerate progress toward long-term recovery, with particular emphasis on empowering local communities through targeted interventions in agriculture, infrastructure repair, and economic inclusion.
The World Food Programme’s continued involvement is expected to complement state-led efforts, bringing technical expertise, resources, and global best practices to support the safe and dignified return of displaced families while fostering resilience in vulnerable areas across Benue State.
