Governor Alia of Benue State Commends Victims Support Fund’s Water Project in Benue

In a significant development, Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, expressed his appreciation for the commendable efforts of the Victims Support Fund (VSF) in successfully completing the N100 million Naka Water Works Projects in Gwer-West local government area of the state. This milestone marks a significant step towards alleviating water scarcity and eliminating waterborne diseases in the local government and the state at large.

During a visit led by the Special Adviser, Programmes and Operations, Barr (Mrs.) Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, at the Government House, Makurdi, the Governor commended the team for their unwavering commitment to their projects despite the challenging security situation faced by the state. He noted, “The over N100 million Naka Water Works Projects and other projects embarked on in the state are worth commendation, and I thank the team for their resilience. I pledge my administration’s full support to these Projects.”

Barr (Mrs.) Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, in her remarks, elaborated on the VSF’s broader humanitarian initiatives in other areas of the state, such as Guma, Logo, Gwer West, Konshisha, Ado, Oju, Obi, and Kwande local governments. She highlighted that the Naka Water Works Projects, which entailed an investment of over N100 million, is expected to be completed within four weeks and has undergone comprehensive rehabilitation.

“We have provided security facilities, accommodations for on-site workers, and a Solar Powered Water Works capable of supplying 100,000 cubic liters of water per day through 50 fetching points,” she stated.

During their visit, the VSF team took the opportunity to apprise Governor Alia of their ongoing program activities, specifically, the Benue State 2022 Emergency Support Program. This comprehensive program was founded on seven key strategic pillars, each contributing to the betterment of the IDPs/host communities. These pillars include; Food Distribution, Health & Medicals, Education Support, Psychosocial Support & Mental Wellness Program, Safe Living & Shelter Set-ups, Access to Water, Hygiene & Sanitation, and Economic Empowerment.

The team shared their forward-looking vision with the Governor by presenting the 2023-2025 Benue State Strategic Implementation Program. They sought the government’s support and collaboration to successfully implement this program in the state. This collaborative effort between the Victims Support Fund and the Benue State government aims to provide lasting and meaningful assistance to the people of the state, furthering their mission to make a positive impact in rebuilding lives and restoring hope of victims of terrorism.

The Victims Support Fund continues to diligently work towards providing relief to victims of insurgency and armed conflict in Nigeria, particularly in the key areas of Peacebuilding and Citizenship Support, Livelihood and Recovery Support, Protection and Psychosocial Support, and Education Support.