July 25, (THEWILL) – The Benue State Government has flagged off the distribution of relief materials donated by the Federal Government to the 276 wards in the state.
The Executive Secretary of Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Sir James Iorpuu, while performing the ceremony at the Industrial Layout, Makurdi, on Thursday, noted that this marks a significant moment as the vulnerable populations would smile.
He extended his heartfelt appreciation to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering commitment to humanitarian intervention, noting that his leadership and compassionate disposition have been instrumental in ensuring that the needs of Benue people are met, especially during challenging times.
“The palliatives we are distributing today come from the Federal Government through NEMA. These vital food items are intended to reach the most vulnerable among us: widows, orphanage homes, the elderly (65 years and above), government schools, especially boarding schools, religious bodies, and the physically challenged across all our 276 local government council wards,” he said.
According to Sir Iorpuu, items to be distributed include 17,940 bags of maize (50kg) and 4,132 bags of Garri (25kg), noting that each council ward will receive 65 bags of maize and 15 bags of garri.
“Our distribution plan is systematic and organised to ensure that every local government receives its fair share, commencing with Zone A today, the 25th of July, 2024, while Zone B will receive its palliatives on the 26th of July, 2024, with Zone C on the 27th of July 2024. Each local government must adhere to its designated day,” he said.
He warned that any local government that misses its turn will have to wait until the mop-up day which is Sunday, July 28, 2024, and urge council Chairmen to maintain the highest level of transparency in the distribution process.
“These palliatives are a lifeline for our most vulnerable citizens and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are distributed fairly and efficiently,” Iorpuu stated.
The Executive Secretary, therefore, called for working synergy with integrity and dedication to make the distribution a success, ensuring that the aid reaches those who need it most.
