The Federal Government has unveiled plans to cultivate a 500-hectare farm for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State. Prof. Nentawe Yilwata, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Poverty Reduction, and Disaster Management, made the announcement on Friday in Makurdi during the launch of the State Durable Solutions Action Plan for IDPs.
The minister revealed that the Federal Government, through the National Aggression Land Development Agency, aims to cultivate 10,000 hectares of land for IDPs across the country. Out of this total, 500 hectares will be allocated to Benue IDPs. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to provide sustainable solutions for displaced persons.
According to Yilwata, the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and IDPs, will provide seeds and farm inputs to the IDPs for the 500 hectares of land. This will enable 1,000 IDP households to benefit from the scheme, with two households per hectare.
The minister explained that 30% of the farm will be allocated to the local host community, while 70% will go to the IDPs. This initiative aims to promote social cohesion between the host community and the IDPs.
Yilwata commended the Benue State Government for its resilience, focus, and commitment to the well-being of its displaced population. He noted that the launching of durable solutions for Benue IDPs marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to address the challenges faced by displaced persons.
Benue State is the first state to launch durable solutions that are majorly agricultural-driven for displaced persons. The state government has donated land and cleared about 1,000 hectares in six different locations as part of its efforts to support IDPs.
The minister praised the Benue State Government for creating cooperatives of over 200 IDPs, the highest in any IDP camp in Nigeria. This initiative demonstrates the state’s commitment to empowering displaced persons and promoting their economic well-being.
The Federal Government’s initiative to cultivate 10,000 hectares of land for IDPs across the country is a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by displaced persons. The government’s efforts to provide sustainable solutions for IDPs are expected to have a positive impact on their lives and livelihoods.
The launch of the State Durable Solutions Action Plan for IDPs in Benue State marks a new beginning for displaced persons in the state. With the support of the Federal Government and the state government, IDPs in Benue can look forward to a brighter future and improved living conditions.
