By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Government has unveiled a plan to cultivate 10,000 hectares nationwide to enable persons displaced by insecurity and natural disasters across the country to grow their own food.
The project will benefit 1,000 IDP households, with each hectare supporting two households.
The announcement was made by Prof. Nentawe Yilwata, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Poverty Reduction, and Disaster Management, on Friday in Makurdi during the official launch of the State Durable Solutions Action Plan for IDPs.
In his address, Yilwata explained that the 10,000 hectare farms, which include the 500 hectare farm to be cultivated in Benue State, are to be cultivated through the National Agricultural Land Development Agency (NALDA).
The goal is to provide sustainable agricultural livelihoods to the displaced population, helping them to regain their independence and contribute to the local economy.
These IDPs will receive essential farming tools, seeds, and other inputs from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and IDPs.
Yilwata also emphasized that the initiative is designed to foster social cohesion by distributing 30 percent of the farm’s produce to the host community, while the remaining 70 percent will be allocated to the IDPs.
This division aims to promote collaboration and unity between the displaced persons and local residents, enabling both groups to share in the benefits of the land.
During his speech, the Minister praised the Benue State government for its leadership in providing practical solutions for IDPs.
He noted that Benue is the first state to launch a durable solution that is focused on agricultural development as a means of empowering displaced persons.
Yilwata further acknowledged the state’s outstanding commitment, including the establishment of over 200 cooperatives and the donation of 1,000 hectares of cleared land across six different locations in the state.
He highlighted that Benue’s proactive approach stands out as a model for other states, demonstrating that the government’s humanitarian efforts are not just about providing aid but also about creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
The cooperation between the Federal and Benue State Governments, as well as the support from the local communities, has been crucial in making the initiative a reality.
The minister also expressed his gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his personal involvement and dedication to improving the lives of IDPs in the state.
He noted that the initiative is especially significant for vulnerable groups, including widows, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and persons with disabilities, as it provides them with both the means and the skills to rebuild their lives.
In his remarks, Yilwata emphasized that this agricultural program is not just a form of temporary aid but a lifeline for vulnerable populations.
It is designed to help displaced individuals regain control over their livelihoods, develop new skills, and create a more stable and sustainable future.
Through the provision of farm inputs, training, and resources, the program aims to give displaced persons the tools they need to succeed in agriculture, ultimately contributing to their long-term economic stability and social integration.
