The European Union (EU) has released €500,000, approximately N886,315,000, in humanitarian aid to support displaced populations in Benue State.
The funding, which will be implemented over a period of six months in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), aims to address the most urgent humanitarian needs of thousands of people displaced by escalating armed violence in the state.
According to reports, the recent attacks have resulted in a significant influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state, putting a strain on existing resources.
The humanitarian crisis in Benue State has been ongoing since 2018, with over 1.5 million people displaced from their homes. The latest wave of violence, which forced almost 23,000 people to flee in June 2025, has further exacerbated the situation.
Many of the displaced persons have been forced to live in camps with inadequate access to basic necessities like shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene.
The EU funding is aimed at supporting activities in sectors such as protection, shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as providing multi-purpose financial aid to help alleviate the suffering of those affected.
The aid is expected to provide critical support to IDPs, helping them to meet their basic needs and improve their living conditions. With the humanitarian situation in Benue State continuing to deteriorate, the EU’s assistance is a welcome relief to those affected by the crisis.
The escalation of violence in 2024 and 2025 has already claimed over 6,900 lives and displaced more than 400,000 people, highlighting the need for sustained humanitarian support.
