Over 3,000 Displaced, 48 Homes Razed in Benue Massacre — FG Unveils N6.7bn Humanitarian Response Plan
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has revealed that at least 3,160 people have been displaced following the recent deadly attack on Yelwa community in Benue State.
Speaking on Arise News’ Morning Show on Tuesday, Yilwatda disclosed that among those affected are 810 school-age children, while 48 homes, along with several shops and business centers, were destroyed in the assault.
The minister stated that a comprehensive needs assessment was conducted in collaboration with state officials and international partners to evaluate the extent of the crisis. “We discovered that 3,160 people were displaced, including about 810 school-age children. We also recorded the loss of about 48 homes, excluding shops and business centres that were destroyed,” he said.
In response to the humanitarian emergency, the federal government has developed a long-term intervention strategy with support from the United Nations system, non-governmental organizations, and development partners.
Yilwatda disclosed that the total budget for the planned intervention stands at N6.7 billion, which will cover emergency relief, peacebuilding efforts, and sustainable recovery solutions for the affected families. He noted that the European Union has already pledged €1.5 million (approximately N2.7 billion), while other stakeholders—including the federal and state governments as well as NGOs—are expected to contribute their share.
According to the minister, the response plan will not only deliver immediate humanitarian relief but also focus on rebuilding destroyed homes, restoring livelihoods, and facilitating the return of displaced children to school.
He added that similar interventions are underway in other crisis-hit states like Borno and Niger, where residents are contending with the aftermath of insurgency, flooding, and malnutrition.
“Some of these challenges are triggered by climate change, natural disasters, and insurgency,” Yilwatda explained. “We are working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive and sustainable response.”
