Gov Alia launches Benue IDPs Policy, pledges lasting solutions for displaced families

Governor Hyacinth Alia on Tuesday unveiled the Benue State Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Policy, assuring displaced families of his administration’s commitment to help them return to their ancestral homes, rebuild their lives, and live with dignity.

The policy, developed with financial support from Save the Children International, was launched at Government House, Makurdi. It becomes the fourth strategic document under the State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, following the Operational Framework, Durable Solutions Action Plan, and Implementation Guidelines.

Represented by his deputy, Dr. Sam Ode, the governor called on stakeholders — including ministries, agencies, civil society, the private sector, and community leaders — to rally behind the new policy through coordinated efforts led by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Durable Solutions Taskforce, and the SDGs Directorate.

Commending the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Mr. Aondowase Kunde, for his collaboration with development partners, Alia stressed that the policy is not just a document but a social contract between the government, partners, and displaced communities. According to him, the goal is to transition from relief to recovery, and from temporary support to long-term stability, while placing displaced persons at the center of every intervention.

He thanked Save the Children International for sponsoring the process and urged that the policy be transformed into practical action that restores dignity and enables displaced persons to return home and thrive again.

Commissioner Kunde described the policy as a roadmap to restore dignity, hope, and opportunities for over one thousand displaced persons in the state. Deputy Country Director of Save the Children International, Mrs. Jane Magi Motwa, applauded the government for domesticating the policy with the agency’s technical and financial support, urging stakeholders to ensure it moves beyond paper to tangible impact.

Speaking on behalf of IDPs, Adakole Inalegwu Daniel from Benue South and Mnena Iorhemba representing Benue North East and North West districts, thanked the state government and development partners, especially Save the Children, for developing the policy and equipping them with skills to return to their livelihoods.