FG begins needs assessment for Yelewata attack victims

The Federal Government has commenced a comprehensive needs assessment for victims of the June 13 bandit attack in Yelewata, Benue State, to guide targeted humanitarian and development interventions.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, after a closed-door meeting with stakeholders and security agencies in Makurdi on wednesday, hinted that the assessment would cover both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term development support for affected communities, particularly, the residents of Yelewata. He said that the exercise was being conducted on the directive of President Bola Tinubu.

“We need accurate data on the needs of the victims and their community to ensure that government interventions are effective and impactful,” he said.

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He added that security support is essential for personnel conducting the assessment, hence the engagement with security heads to ensure their protection.

“We’re working with the security agencies to ensure the safety of those on the ground. Once the data is collected, we will develop a blueprint comprising both short- and long-term programmes for social protection and recovery,” the minister explained.

He also announced plans to launch a new social protection project aimed at supporting vulnerable families across Benue State.

As part of his visit, the minister is expected to tour the Yelewata internally displaced persons (IDP) camp and engage directly with affected residents.