FIC Report (Benue State) – The Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Dr. Bernard Doro, on Wednesday led a high-level delegation to commission a new water treatment plant and witness the handover of 600 newly constructed shelters for internally displaced persons (IDPs) at the UBE Camp in Naka, headquarters of Gwer West.
The event, which marks a significant milestone in ongoing humanitarian interventions in Benue State, underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with state authorities and international partners to provide sustainable solutions for displaced populations.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister commended the strategic partnership between the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Benue State Government in delivering critical infrastructure to vulnerable communities. He emphasised that access to clean water, safe shelter, and improved sanitation remains central to restoring dignity and stability to displaced persons.
The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, described the intervention as a testament to the strong partnership between the Federal Government, the state, and development partners in addressing humanitarian challenges across the state.
The newly installed water treatment plant has a production capacity of 500,000 litres per day and is expected to significantly improve access to potable water for IDPs and host communities, thereby enhancing sanitation and overall living conditions within the camp.
In addition to the commissioning, the Minister and other dignitaries witnessed the official handover of 600 newly constructed shelters at the IDP camp. The housing units, funded by ECHO, form part of a broader intervention project targeting 960 shelters, with construction ongoing on the remaining 360 units.
The event attracted key national and international stakeholders, including the IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, Sharon Dimanche; the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot; the ECHO Representative, Comfort Agwu; as well as representatives of United Nations agencies, development partners, and humanitarian organisations.
The commissioning ceremony reinforces the shared commitment of the Federal Government, the Benue State Government, and international partners to deliver durable and people-centred humanitarian support to displaced populations in Naka and beyond.
Signed
BRIDGET TARKER
For Head of Center FIC Makurdi
