…document provides roadmap to tackle critical issues

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has unveiled the state’s Multisectoral Needs Assessment, MSNA, Report to address urgent humanitarian needs of the state.

Performing the unveiling Friday in Makurdi the Governor said it was a significant and transformative move noting that the MSNA which represents a pivotal step in the state’s humanitarian strategy, provides a comprehensive roadmap to tackle critical issues such as food security, healthcare, water and sanitation, education, and protection services.

Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Sam Ode, the Governor said: “This report is not just a document; it is a strategic framework that will guide our immediate and long-term humanitarian interventions. Therefore today marks a new era in Benue State’s commitment to addressing the complex challenges faced by our communities.

“This report exemplifies our collaborative spirit, bringing together government, civil society, and international partners in a unified effort to build resilience and foster sustainable change. Together, we envision a Benue where every citizen has access to essential resources and opportunities for a better life.”

The Governor also acknowledged the resilience and commitment of the Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development, BICD, for their crucial role in facilitating partnerships that led to the successful event.

He urged the international community and humanitarian organizations to leverage the insights provided by the MSNA to inform their programming and collaborate toward shared goals.

According to him, “today is a decisive moment. It is an invitation to all our partners, both local and international, to join us in building a resilient Benue. Together, we will create a state where every citizen’s basic needs are met, and opportunities for progress and prosperity flourish.”

The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management whose Ministry coordinated the programme, Mr. Aondowase Kunde, said the MSNA aims to enhance coordination among stakeholders to address both current and emerging challenges.

He expressed gratitude to partners including Save the Children and Plan International, referring to the report as a “living document” that would evolve with the state’s dynamic humanitarian landscape.

He stated that “the MSNA aligns seamlessly with our forthcoming Durable Solutions Strategy. This strategy will address displacement issues and enhance resilience throughout the state. Today’s launch, along with the Project 10 Million Campaign for preventive healthcare screenings, underscores our Ministry’s commitment to partnerships that prioritize the well-being and health of every Benue citizen.”

The MEAL Coordinator for Save the Children, Benson Madubuko emphasized the pressing needs across Benue State noting that 63 percent of households face food insecurity, while nearly 40 percent had experienced displacement due to communal conflicts and recurrent floods.

Moreover, the report recommended enhancement in food distribution, improving water and sanitation services, increasing access to education, and bolstering health services for displaced and affected communities.

Additionally, it outlined strategies for supporting vulnerable populations through coordinated, multi-agency responses.

The Project 10 Million Campaign, introduced during the event, offered free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings to participants under the guide of the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Yanmar Ortese.

The event was attended by members of the Civil Society Organizations CSOs in Benue State, representatives from United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR, Plan International, the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, and various local and international stakeholders.