The Federal Government has confirmed that over 3,160 persons have been displaced and 48 homes destroyed following the deadly attack on Yelwata community in Benue State.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, during an interview on Arise News’ Morning Show on Tuesday. He noted that the displaced included 810 school-age children, while numerous shops and business centres were also razed in the violence.
According to the minister, a comprehensive needs assessment was conducted in the affected area in partnership with Benue State authorities, international NGOs, and development partners. Yilwatda revealed that the government has developed a long-term response plan valued at N6.7 billion to address the humanitarian crisis.
He said the plan would focus not only on emergency relief but also on rebuilding homes, restoring livelihoods, and ensuring children return to school. The European Union has already pledged €1.5 million (approximately N2.7 billion), with contributions also expected from other partners.
Yilwatda added that similar interventions are ongoing in Borno, Niger, and other conflict-affected states to address issues related to insecurity, flooding, and malnutrition, stressing the need for coordinated action to combat the growing threats driven by insurgency and climate-related challenges.
