By Sam Tyav, Makurdi
Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) has unveiled its 2026 Annual Work Plan with its roadmap focused on durable solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), disaster preparedness, and long-term resilience.
The launch held at BSEMA headquarters, Makurdi, the state capital, during a Special Thanksgiving Service to appreciate God Almighty for the journey so far and to seek His intervention in 2026.
The Permanent/ Executive Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Sir James Aondoakaa Iorpuu, in his speech on the occasion, expressed gratitude to God Almighty for protection, guidance, and mercies throughout the past year and appreciated Him for the sustained peace and stability enjoyed by the state.
While describing the occasion as a celebration of collective effort and shared responsibility in responding to the humanitarian needs of IDPs, refugees, and other vulnerable populations across the State, he also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for what he described as his compassion and commitment to the welfare of displaced persons which,he noted, has repositioned BSEMA as a proactive, efficient, and reform-driven agency in conformity with global best practices.
Sir Iorpuu said that since his appointment in 2023, the agency has enjoyed strong institutional support from the Governor, which has enabled the implementation of strategic reforms to transform it into a modern, collaborative emergency management institution.
Some of the achievements during the period, according to him, include the regular distribution of food and non-food items to IDP camps and host communities, expanded humanitarian support to Cameroonian refugees, and the construction of the ultra-modern Fr. Alia Conference Hall, designed to function as a coordination centre, training facility, and 24-hour emergency response hub.
While unveiling BSEMA’s 2026 roadmap, Iorpuu disclosed that the plan was anchored on long-term recovery and resilience through voluntary resettlement, agricultural empowerment, livelihood restoration, enhanced disaster preparedness, and strengthened early warning systems.
The BSEMA boss assured that the strategy would be implemented in collaboration with the Federal Government, United Nations (UN) agencies, international and local non-governmental organisations, civil society groups, and development partners, guided by the Benue State Response Plan.
Iorpuu appreciated the Federal Government, particularly the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), as well as UN agencies including UNHCR, UNICEF, IOM, among others, for their continued support.
He also acknowledged the support of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Nasarawa State Government, corporate organisations such as UBA, security agencies including the Department of State Services (DSS), traditional rulers, and host communities of Tyomu, Tatyough, and Mbayongo, the latter trio for providing land for IDP shelters and farming activities.
In his message, the Spiritual Director to the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Clement Ugoh, appealed to the BSEMA leadership and staff to remain courageous, principled, and selfless in their service, drawing lessons from the life of Saint Agatha.
According to Fr. Ugoh, prayer is the strongest foundation of faith and a vital source of strength for public service, pointing out that true service to God and humanity must be rooted in truth, integrity, and moral values.
The cleric called on leaders and institutions to ensure that every policy, decision, and action is guided by respect for human dignity, justice, and professional ethics.
In her goodwill message on behalf of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Benue State Head of Sub-Office, Mediatrice Barengayaba, acknowledged Sir Iorpuu’s proactive role and assured of continued support, particularly in programmes protecting women and children.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Gov. Alia.
