George Okoh in Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, yesterday disclosed that the state has encountered different challenges ranging from natural calamities to man made in recent times.
He added that a coordinating space for management of humanitarian cases was necessary for stakeholders to strategise, collaborate and brainstorm on the true humanitarian situation, describing construction of the hall and situation room as very important.
Speaking at a ground breaking foundation laying ceremony of state of the art conference Hall at Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) in Makurdi, Alia explained that the hall would not only be a mere structure but a symbol of collective commitment to the coordination and management of humanitarian response efforts in the state.
“As we lay the foundation today, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter and more resilient future for the people of Benue. The conference hall will not only facilitate coordination of emergency response efforts but will serve as a platform for capacity building, knowledge sharing and advocacy”, Alia informed the gathering.
He added that the edifice would create a space for exchange of ideas, partnerships as well as provide solutions.
Alia commended the Executive Secretary, BSEMA, James Iorpuu and his team for their dedication and unwavering commitment to serving the people in face of challenges, stressing that the project would serve as a testament to his hard work and perseverance.
He expressed appreciation to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) for their support in the building of the hall, adding that government has a lot of value for the partnership.
He noted that government would always look forward to further strengthen the collaboration and called on other humanitarian partners such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and others to join hands with his administration to complete the cause, describing their expertise, resources and support as valuable.
Alia also pointed out that it is the duty of government to ensure that those who have been forced to flee their homes due to insecurity return with dignity and build their lives in a safe and secure environment.
He assured that his administration is committed to the safe return of IDPs and would continue to ensure the protection of lives and property, particularly those affected by herdsmen attacks.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, BSEMA, Iorpuu said the edifice would serve as a pivotal hub for humanitarian activities by providing a conducive environment for discussions, capacity building sessions and emergency response coordination.
In separate remarks, representatives of UNHCR, Saleh Okpaje, and that of IOM, Laurent De Boeck, assured government of their continued support, describing the idea which will serve as hub for humanitarian activities as laudable.
