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In a heartfelt message shared on social media as the new year dawned, Demian Dzer, a representative of the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria, extended profound gratitude to an individual referred to as “Dear Alex” and the organization Building Zion for their humanitarian efforts in rebuilding homes destroyed during the violent attacks of 2025.
The year had been marked by tragedy for Yelewata, a predominantly Christian farming community near the Benue-Nasarawa border. In June 2025, suspected Fulani herdsmen launched a brutal assault on the village, resulting in the deaths of over 100 to 200 residents—reports vary—with many homes, farms, and market structures razed to the ground. The attack displaced thousands, exacerbating an ongoing crisis of insecurity, economic hardship, and human rights concerns in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
Dzer reflected on the challenges faced throughout the year, including militia invasions, destruction of property, and the broader impact on daily life. Yet, amid the pain, he highlighted the transformative support provided by Building Zion, a faith-based organization dedicated to aiding persecuted communities through construction projects. Their work in reconstructing destroyed houses not only restored physical shelter but also reignited hope, unity, and a sense of triumph among survivors.
The community leader praised the tangible impact of the rebuilding milestones, noting how snapshots of progress captured the lives touched and families brought back together. He expressed a deep desire for personal moments of celebration with the supporters, including sharing Christmas in the newly rebuilt homes and welcoming 2026 with families in Yelewata.
Building Zion’s intervention stands as a beacon of solidarity in a time of prolonged adversity. Dzer closed his message with thanks for the team’s unwavering commitment, wishing blessings for the new year filled with courage, solidarity, and continued action. As Yelewata looks ahead, such efforts underscore the resilience of the community and the power of humanitarian aid in fostering recovery from conflict.
