The Federal Government has commenced the distribution of emergency food and nutrition support items to vulnerable households in Benue State under the Presidential Initiative for Food and Nutrition Assistance, aimed at cushioning the impact of displacement, insecurity, and loss of livelihoods.
The flag-off ceremony, held on Thursday, was led by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, while the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, was represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Sam Ode.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Doro described the intervention as both an urgent humanitarian response and a strategic effort to connect emergency relief with long-term social protection programmes. He explained that beneficiaries would also be linked to initiatives such as conditional cash transfers and livelihood support through the National Social Register.
In his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, emphasised the importance of a coordinated and data-driven humanitarian approach. He noted that the intervention reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to shock-responsive social protection, improved beneficiary targeting, and efficient last-mile delivery of assistance.
Representing the state government, Deputy Governor Sam Ode expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the timely intervention, noting that several communities in Benue have experienced displacement and destruction of farmlands due to insecurity.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the direct distribution of food items to beneficiaries, including internally displaced persons, persons with disabilities, elderly citizens, and other vulnerable groups, particularly families from Guma Local Government Area.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and continued collaboration with the Benue State Government to strengthen community resilience, restore livelihoods, and support sustainable pathways out of poverty.
Directors of the ministry and other senior government officials were also in attendance at the flag-off ceremony.
