FIC Report (Benue State) – A major boost has come the way of displaced families in Benue State as the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, visited Makurdi with a strong message of solidarity, compassion, and federal support. Her visit was marked by the announcement of a N1 billion humanitarian intervention under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aimed at rebuilding war-torn communities and resettling thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across the state.
The First Lady, accompanied by key government officials and development partners, was received at the Government House, Makurdi, by the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia. Her visit came in the wake of renewed violent attacks in parts of the state, including the recent massacre in Yelewata, which left dozens dead and scores displaced.
In her address, Senator Tinubu described the humanitarian situation in Benue as deeply distressing and assured that her initiative would continue to mobilize resources to cushion the suffering of victims. She reaffirmed her commitment to work with the state government and stakeholders to ensure that no community is left behind.
“This is not just about relief—it’s about recovery and rebuilding lives. We are committed to standing with Benue through practical support and lasting partnerships,” she stated.
The N1 billion donation, she revealed, will fund the provision of emergency relief items, psychosocial services, livelihood tools, and infrastructural support for IDP camps and affected communities.
Governor Alia, in his response, lauded the First Lady’s visit as timely and impactful, noting that over 1.5 million people remain displaced across the state. He emphasized that while humanitarian support is essential, sustainable peace can only be achieved through urgent reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Reiterating his advocacy for the establishment of State Police, Governor Alia stressed that centralized policing has failed to respond effectively to the security realities in regions like Benue.
“We are at a point where decentralizing security is no longer a debate but a necessity. State Police will strengthen local intelligence and response capabilities,” he affirmed.
The Governor also renewed his call for a regional approach to livestock management, urging the domestication of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law across North Central states.
“A uniform ranching law is the only way to eliminate cross-border criminality by armed herders,” he added.
The visit, beyond its humanitarian significance, has renewed national focus on Benue’s lingering security and displacement crisis. It also reflects the growing consensus on the need for localized governance solutions to address Nigeria’s complex challenges.
Signed
VERONICA AZEMBA
For: Head of Center,
Federal Information Cente
