FG to spend N32.7bn on humanitarian support for vulnerable groups in Nigeria 

From, Attah Ede, Makurdi 

The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs/Natural Disaster, Nentawe Yilwatda, on Friday, revealed that the Federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is injecting 32.7 billion naira for support to vulnerable groups in the country. 

 Yilwatda made this known during the  launching of the State Durable Solution Action Plan for Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs at Government House Makurdi on Friday.

He said the money does attract any collateral and is non-interest, adding that the money would be given to 300 to 400 in the State as household loans to expand their farms, promote agriculture and give them food. 

He  further disclosed that the federal government will soon reactivate the N-Power, while over 100, 000 items have been earmarked to empower youths across the country. 

Said he, “700 million have been set aside for 15 million households while 70 million naira will be given 75, 000 to drive small scale industries and  migrate out of poverty and give them new life.

“We have built on economic empowerment and sustainable development as well as working vigorously on improving security in our communities. FG is working on a tripod of peace, economic empowerment and human development. 

“FG stands with Benue and the international partners are also with you. Move forward with sheer determination and hope. 

Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia said the plan will pave the way for a lasting solution for the future of 582,000 displaced persons across the 23 LGA with a large majority in 17 local government areas..

Governor Alia reiterated his commitment to return the IDPS to their ancestral homes, maintain that significant steps have been taken in the area of community Dialogue, establishment of cooperative and provision of emergency shelter to transit them back home.

He acknowledged the support of the President towards the plight of the IDPs even as he announced that 10 percent have been approved in the 2025 Budget for implementation of the action plan. 

“The Government remains focused on improving the lives of IDPS and the agricultural fortune of the State. 300 hectares of land have already been cleared for IDPS to begin dry season farming. 

“To the international partners, we appreciate the cushioning effect you provide for the IDPs. We urge you to continue to partner with us. We are open to agriculture business. The plan is valid for a period of 5 years and   will be updated”. 

“Towards our unwavering commitment to the IDPs guided by purpose, it is a new dawn of a new hope . 

“4000 cooperatives formed under the durable solution. Benue demonstrated commitment for 200 cooperatives for the IDPS. 500 hectare of land 2 hectare for 2 households  to be cultivated by IDPs. 70 percent to IDPS and 30 2 host communities. Social investment 

UN Representative Mohammed Fall said the State has a powerful long term commitment aimed at  fostering development for IDPS, adding that it focuses on practical community solutions which underscores the importance of self-reliance. 

“Prioritize peaceful co-existence and reconciliation. The UN is in full solidarity with the State and will provide resources towards the plan. It is about something that is sustainable and it requires sustained and collective effort as a global community” he stressed.