Save the Children, Benue Government Unveil State IDPs Policy, Urge Concrete Implementation

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

Save the Children International (SCI), in partnership with the Benue State Government, has officially launched the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Policy in the state.

While commending the government for domesticating the policy, SCI emphasized the need to translate it into tangible outcomes, including safer shelters, restored livelihoods, access to education, and protection services for displaced children and families.

Speaking during the launch on September 30, 2025, at the Government House, Makurdi, SCI’s Deputy Country Director, Jane Mbagi Mutua, urged government agencies, development partners, civil society, and community leaders to collaborate in ensuring the policy moves beyond paper into practical action. She stressed that displaced children and families are counting on its full implementation, adequate funding, and consistent monitoring.

“Save the Children is pleased to have supported the development of this policy through technical and financial assistance,” Mutua said. “We remain committed to working with the government and communities until every Nigerian child can learn safely and is fully protected. In Benue State, we are supporting IDPs with cash assistance to meet urgent needs, rebuild livelihoods, and access WASH and child protection services. Additionally, we are working with communities to reduce displacement risks from flooding through the Flood Anticipation Capacity Enhancement Project and the Strengthening Anticipatory Action in Nigeria initiative.”

She recalled that for over a century, Save the Children has been dedicated to promoting and protecting children’s rights by listening to children, families, and communities, and partnering with governments and international organizations.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his deputy, Barr. Sam Odeh, described the policy as more than a document but rather a “social contract” between the government, partners, and displaced communities. He acknowledged the unique challenges of policy implementation in Benue, emphasizing the need for inclusion and balance across the state’s three senatorial districts.

“In Benue, interventions are spread across Zones A, B, and C. While challenges may be similar, inclusion and balance are crucial,” the Governor stated. “I call on all stakeholders—ministries, agencies, civil society, the private sector, and community leaders—to rally behind this policy. Through coordination with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Durable Solutions Taskforce, and the SDGs Directorate, let us ensure responses are streamlined, inclusive, and effective. To our displaced brothers and sisters, you are not forgotten, and your future is at the heart of this policy.”

The State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kude, praised SCI for its consistent support in addressing humanitarian crises. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to global best practices on IDP management, adding that the new policy would strengthen the state’s multi-sectoral response and provide a pathway for durable solutions.

Representatives of the United Nations, NGOs, religious and traditional leaders, as well as IDP groups, commended the initiative and pledged support for its full and effective implementation.

Rev. Fr. Philip Apu, Coordinator of the Foundation for Justice, Development and Peace (FJDP) of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, described the policy launch as timely, noting it would address the plight of vulnerable populations. “Our people once farmed and lived freely on their land. With this intervention, hope is being restored, and FJDP will continue to support and pray for the success of this policy,” he said.

IDP representatives, including Blessing Terkura and Daniel Inalegwu from Yelewata Camp and Zone C, expressed appreciation to SCI and the state government, urging them to ensure the policy’s effective implementation for the benefit of displaced communities.