Gov. Hyacinth Alia, on Friday, launched a five-year N853 billion programme to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue.

According to him, this is with the aim of fostering the IDPs safe return to their ancestral homes.

The Action Plan, also known as Durable Solutions, outlines a three-pronged approach to tackle the crisis: Return, Reintegration, and Resettlement.

“Before I assumed office, my dream was to see a day when every IDP has returned to their ancestral home,” the governor said.

The programme includes key initiatives such as community dialogues to foster peace; and land donations from traditional rulers for farming and relocation.

In addition, the programme also highlights establishing cooperatives to support IDPs as they transition back to their homes.

The governor noted that 5,000 hectares of land had been allocated and cleared for IDPs’ cluster farms across the state, with the formation of 210 farmers cooperatives benefiting over 4,200 IDPs.

He said the beneficiaries would receive extensive training in rice, maize, cassava, and vegetable farming, covering all stages of production.

The programme is expected to provide IDPs with access to land, subsidised inputs, and improved seedlings, as well as increased yields and revenue.

Also, beneficiaries will have guaranteed market access with government-controlled prices and integration into the larger value chain.

Mr Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring stability and dignity to affected communities.

He emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between the government and the international community.

He highlighted areas of strain on local resources and social cohesion as host communities struggle to accommodate the displaced population across 23 LGAs.

The governor shared success stories, such as the recent completion of the Transit Camp in Guma LGA, which houses over 4,000 dignified emergency shelters, improving living conditions for IDPs.

He said, to ensure the plan’s success, the Benue government had allocated 10 per cent of the state’s 2025 budget for its implementation.

Mr Alia called for support from various stakeholders, including the federal government, UN agencies, and local organisations.

He urged all partners to coordinate their efforts through the Benue durable solutions task force, reinforcing the need for a unified approach to the crisis.

The governor also endorsed the State Action Plan for five years, with plans for regular evaluations to adapt to the growing needs of the population.

“This programme will be crucial in addressing the long-term needs of our people,” he said.

The governor had earlier unveiled the IDPs cluster farms at Tyo-Mu, Makurdi LGA, which was one of the six locations of the farms in the state.

(NAN)