The Nigerian federal government has taken a significant step towards addressing the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) by initiating the construction of resettlement homes in Benue state. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, made this announcement during the flag-off ceremony of the Renewed Hope shelter project for IDPs in Tatyo and Kyo communities, Makurdi North Local Government Area of Benue.
Edu conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to collaborate with states in order to resettle IDPs in their ancestral homes. The minister emphasized that the project in Benue aims to fulfill the promise of addressing poverty and humanitarian crises in the region.
She said, “Benue people have cried enough, they have struggled enough, they have been in pain enough. President Tinubu says it is time for Benue people to rejoice.” Edu assured the IDPs present at the event that this marked the beginning of their journey to return to their ancestral homes.
Highlighting President Tinubu’s agenda, Edu cited food security as the primary focus. She acknowledged that the people of Benue play a crucial role in achieving this goal and expressed the government’s determination to ease their suffering. President Tinubu envisions a dignified housing solution for the IDPs, replacing temporary shelters with proper homes where they can live peacefully and cultivate their lands.
Edu reaffirmed the president’s commitment, adding that the construction of the Renewed Hope shelter for poor IDPs had commenced, with an expected completion time of six months. The shelter project will consist of 20 houses in each cluster, providing the IDPs an opportunity to resettle in their respective communities. The materials for construction will be locally sourced, supporting the local economy and encouraging community involvement in building their own homes.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue expressed his appreciation for the initiative, stating that the IDPs have eagerly awaited their return to their ancestral homes to resume their farming activities. He acknowledged the efforts of various stakeholders, including youth groups, security agencies, and faith-based organizations, in facilitating the return and rehabilitation process. Alia credited the deployment of underground security measures for the relative peace experienced in certain areas of Benue state.
As the federal government commences the construction of resettlement homes for IDPs in Benue, it signifies a significant leap towards restoring dignity, promoting food security, and rebuilding lives that have been affected by displacement. The government’s commitment to prompt completion and its local approach to construction aims to empower and uplift the IDP community as they prepare to return to their ancestral lands.