The Benue Government has begun distributing food palliatives donated by the Federal Government through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assist the state’s most vulnerable citizens. The distribution includes 17,940 bags of maize (50kg each) and 4,132 bags of garri (25kg each), allocated to the 276 council wards in the state. Each ward will receive 65 bags of maize and 15 bags of garri.
During the distribution ceremony in Makurdi, James Iorpuu, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), emphasized the importance of fair and efficient distribution. He outlined that the palliatives are specifically intended for widows, orphanage homes, the elderly (65 years and above), government schools (particularly boarding schools), religious bodies, and the physically challenged across all council wards.
Iorpuu detailed the systematic distribution plan:
- Zone A: Distribution begins on July 25, 2024
- Zone B: Distribution on July 26, 2024
- Zone C: Distribution on July 27, 2024
Local governments that miss their designated day will have to wait until the mop-up day on Sunday, July 28, 2024. He urged the Local Government Chairmen to ensure transparency throughout the distribution process to uphold fairness and efficiency.
Iorpuu also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his dedication to humanitarian efforts and leadership in addressing the needs of the people during difficult times. He announced that an additional set of palliatives from the Governors Forum would be distributed to all citizens the following week.