NEMA distributes palliatives to 6,403 vulnerable households in Benue

National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Wednesday distributed food baskets donated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) to 6,403 vulnerable households in Benue as part of efforts to support families affected by humanitarian challenges.

Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, said the beneficiaries were among households profiled for the intervention in the state.

Represented by the agency’s Director of Special Duties, Fatimah Kasim, Umar disclosed that KSrelief donated a total of 24,302 food baskets for distribution to vulnerable persons in Benue, Yobe State, Anambra State, Kebbi State, and Taraba.

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She said the intervention was aimed at complementing the efforts of the Federal Government, NEMA and the Benue State Government in addressing humanitarian needs and strengthening community resilience.

“I wish to state that the distribution exercise will be carried out strictly in line with the specific operational and accountability standards expected by KSrelief,” she said.

The NEMA boss also urged residents of flood-prone communities across the country to take proactive measures to minimise risks and protect lives as the rainy season intensifies.

She noted that the warning was based on the predictions contained in the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction and Annual Flood Outlook.

“As the rainy season heightens, it is important to draw attention to the increasing risks of flooding and related disasters across many parts of Nigeria, including many communities in Benue State.

“In line with the predictions from the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction and Annual Flood Outlook, I wish to strongly advise residents, community leaders and local authorities in flood-prone areas to take proactive measures to reduce risks and protect lives,” Umar said.

Also speaking, Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), James Iorpuu, appreciated donor partners for their continued support.

He said the humanitarian challenges facing the state require sustained collaboration among government institutions, humanitarian agencies, development partners, donor organisations, the private sector, traditional institutions and local communities.

Iorpuu expressed confidence that through collective efforts and shared responsibility, stakeholders would continue to restore livelihoods, provide hope, and help displaced families rebuild their lives in peace, safety, and dignity.