Benue Government Issues Urgent Flood Warning, Launches Relief for Displaced Residents

The Benue State Government has issued a serious flood warning to residents living in high-risk zones, urging them to relocate immediately to safer areas as the rainy season intensifies.

This urgent alert follows the Nigerian Meteorological Agency's (NiMet) latest forecast, which identified Benue as one of the states most vulnerable to flooding in the coming months.

The warning was shared during the June flag-off of relief item distribution by the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management.

“We are calling on residents in flood-prone areas to take proactive steps and relocate to safer locations. The warning from NiMet should not be ignored,” said Donald Komgbenda, Head of Administration at Benue SEMA, speaking on behalf of Permanent Secretary James Anodoakaa Iorpuu.

As part of the government's response, food and non-food items are being distributed to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other vulnerable groups. The exercise began in Apa Local Government Area and the Mbayongo Mega Camp.

“This distribution demonstrates the government’s continuous effort to ensure no vulnerable individual is left behind, especially those affected by attacks from armed herdsmen,” Komgbenda emphasized.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of Benue citizens, both in terms of disaster preparedness and security response.

Permanent Secretary Iorpuu highlighted Governor Hyacinth Alia’s leadership, applauding his focus on humanitarian needs and efforts to address ongoing security threats.

“His Excellency has shown unwavering dedication to addressing both humanitarian and security challenges in the state,” Iorpuu said.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for deploying the Chief of Army Staff to Benue, a move believed to enhance peace and stability in the region.