KOGI COMMISSIONER FOR HUMANITARIAN ATTENDS LAUNCHING OF BENUE STATE ACTION PLAN ON DURABLE SOLUTIONS FOR IDPs

The Honourable Commissioner of the Kogi State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Hajia Rabietu Okute (Iye Ebule Onyete), recently participated in the formal launching of the Benue State Action Plan on Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Makurdi. This significant event aimed to address the ongoing challenges of displacement and promote sustainable livelihoods for displaced individuals. The gathering of high-profile dignitaries, including a United Nations representative, the Benue State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, the Cross River State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, and other prominent officials, underscored the importance of the occasion.

Following the event, Hajia Rabietu Okute expressed her deep appreciation to the Benue State Government for the gracious invitation to participate in such a meaningful initiative. She emphasized that the launch of the Action Plan represents a pivotal moment in the collective efforts to address the plight of IDPs nationwide. In her words, “I am truly honored and touched by the invitation extended to me by the Benue State Government. This event signifies the dedication of the Government and stakeholders to finding lasting solutions to the challenges faced by our displaced brothers and sisters. It serves as a rallying cry for unity, collaboration, and focused action.”

The Honourable Commissioner commended the Benue State Government for its proactive approach in developing a comprehensive strategy to meet the needs of IDPs. She praised the inclusion of key stakeholders, such as international partners, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and host communities, in the formulation of the Action Plan.

Hajia Rabietu Okute also emphasized the importance of prioritizing education, skill acquisition, and psycho-Social support as critical components of Durable Solutions. In her words, ” We must focus on building the capacities of Displaced Persons to enable to enable them to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to the Development of their communities. Education, Vocational training, and mental health support are key in this regard ”

The Honourable Commissioner also used the opportunity to advocate for increased federal Government support and international assistance for Benue State amongst others, which has been Grappling with a significant number of Displaced Persons due to communal clashes, farmer-herder conflicts, and Natural disasters. “The Federal Government must provide more resources to states like Benue that bear the burden of hosting displaced persons. International organizations must also scale up their interventions to support the implementation of sustainable solutions,” she added.

The occasion, which was attended by representatives from the United Nations and other humanitarian agencies, underscored the collective resolve to address Displacement challenges in Nigeria. Hajia Rabietu Okute reaffirmed her commitment as the Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to work closely with state Governments and International Partners to Alleviate Poverty and bring hope to Vulnerable Populations.

The occasion concluded with renewed pledges
from stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring that no one is left behind in the quest for Durable Solutions for IDPs in Nigeria.

Ibrahim Abdulazeez
PRO Humanitarian.