Governor Hyacinth Alia has announced the enrollment of over 6,273 vulnerable individuals from 15 Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDP) camps into the Benue State Health Insurance Scheme. The initiative aims to provide essential healthcare services to those most affected by displacement in the state.
The governor made this known during a meeting with a United Nations delegation in Makurdi, led by Paola Pace, Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Alexandre Castellano, Head of Office for the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO).
Challenges Facing IDPs in Benue
Governor Alia lamented the dire conditions faced by the displaced population, which numbers over 1.5 million across 26 camps in the state. He highlighted the challenges they encounter, including inadequate shelter, limited access to clean water and sanitation, insufficient healthcare services, and a lack of robust protection mechanisms.
“The displaced population is grappling with harsh realities that have led to harmful coping strategies, including early marriages, transactional activities, and reduced food intake. These challenges disproportionately affect women, children, and persons with disabilities,” Alia stated.
Efforts to Address the Crisis
The governor outlined measures taken to mitigate the plight of the displaced and their host communities, including:
Providing resources and social services to ease the strain on host communities.
Deploying over 5,000 Civil Protection Guards in collaboration with security agencies to enhance safety.
Partnering with international organizations to distribute agricultural inputs, training, and resources to displaced persons and host communities.
“Our approach ensures food security while fostering economic independence and stability,” Alia said.
Commitment to Sustainable Solutions
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling the root causes of displacement and attacks in Benue, emphasizing the importance of fostering long-term solutions.
“As we embark on this mission, we are confident that our deliberations will yield actionable strategies to uplift both the displaced and their host communities. My administration remains unwavering in its dedication to addressing these challenges,” he assured.
The partnership with international organizations is expected to play a pivotal role in restoring stability and improving the living conditions of displaced populations in Benue State.
