By Esther Ososanya
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the European Union (EU) and the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), has launched a humanitarian support package worth $1.1 million (approximately N1.7 billion) for displaced persons in Benue State.
The pledge was announced on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, during a courtesy visit to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia at the Old Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi, by IOM’s Deputy Director General for Operations, Ms. Ugochi Daniels, and the Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Ms. Sylvia Ekra.
Governor Alia described the intervention as a significant boost to Benue’s humanitarian response and a step towards durable solutions for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
“Your visit to Benue underscores the fact that the suffering of our people has not been ignored. It represents not just solidarity but also recognition of our resilience and collective determination to rebuild lives with dignity,” the governor said.
He commended IOM for its work in camp coordination, shelter, and WASH services, as well as for deploying the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), which he said has improved data-driven humanitarian response.
The governor also announced a $50,000 state contribution to IOM’s resilience programme, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring livelihoods.
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In her remarks, Ms. Daniels explained that the new fund would be implemented in partnership with IOM, UNHCR, and UN-HABITAT, stressing that the initiative reflects a shared responsibility towards crisis-affected populations and the need for deeper partnerships to achieve peace and sustainable recovery.
Sir James Iorpuu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, highlighted IOM’s interventions in Benue since 2023, which include IDP biometric registration, emergency shelters, safe water provision, and psychosocial support.
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The delegation later visited the IDP Mega Camp, where they interacted with displaced persons and inspected facilities.
During the event, Secretary to the State Government, Deaconess Serumun Deborah Aber, presented IOM with a Distinguished Humanitarian Award in recognition of its life-saving interventions in the state.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
