The Benue State Network of NGOs (BENGONET), in collaboration with Comfort Centre and the Civil Society Scaling-Up Nutrition in Nigeria, has commemorated the 2026 World Food Day with internally displaced persons (IDPs) at the International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi, Benue State.

The event was organised to promote food security, improve nutrition awareness and encourage sustainable food practices, while drawing attention to the food and welfare needs of families affected by displacement. It also provided an opportunity for the participating organisations to demonstrate solidarity with displaced residents facing economic hardship and the challenges of life in a camp.

Speaking at the event, the Team Lead, Mr. Daniel Seer, commended the resilience of the displaced persons despite the difficulties associated with displacement and prevailing economic pressures. He explained that the donated food items were intended to complement the efforts of the Benue State Government in providing food and non-food assistance to people living in displacement camps.

Mr. Seer emphasised the importance of sustained cooperation among government institutions, civil society organisations and humanitarian partners in addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable populations. He noted that initiatives of this nature could help draw attention to the immediate needs of displaced families while promoting continued support for their welfare.

Responding on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (Benue-SEMA), the Camp Manager, Mr. Robert Nyom, appreciated the organisations for identifying with the camp residents and contributing to their welfare.

Mr. Nyom appealed for sustained humanitarian assistance, explaining that the camp’s large population required continuous support to meet essential needs. He also acknowledged the importance of partnerships in complementing existing interventions for displaced persons.

The donated items included yams, bags of salt, Maggi seasoning cubes and a 25-kilogram bag of rice for each beneficiary. The donation formed part of the activities marking World Food Day, reinforcing the need for collective action to promote food security, better nutrition and support for vulnerable communities.

Tema Ager

Information Officer, Benue-SEMA