In response to the recent attacks that have left several communities in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State in distress, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has delivered a substantial quantity of relief materials for distribution. This initiative aims to alleviate the suffering of individuals affected by the onslaught.
The decision to provide immediate relief was made following the visit of Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, to Plateau State after the December 24, 2023 attacks. During his visit, the Vice President conveyed the President’s directive for NEMA to step in and offer support to mitigate the impact of the attacks.
A delegation comprising representatives from NEMA-NCZ, SEMA, UNICEF, and WHO visited Barkin Ladi, where they were warmly received by the Local Government Chairman and community leaders. Expressing gratitude, the Chairman acknowledged the swift response from the President and the Director General of NEMA after the Vice President’s visit. The proactive measures taken, including the provision of food and non-food items, were commended. The Chairman pledged cooperation with the State Government to prevent a recurrence of such incidents while also appealing for additional support from the government.
Traditional leader Da Hom Rai B/Ladi and ES SEMA extended their appreciation to NEMA for consistently offering support in emergency situations, acknowledging the agency’s pivotal role in alleviating the effects of crises.
Representing the Director General of NEMA, Mustapha Habib Ahmed, ZC NCZ Mr. Eugene Nyelong expressed sorrow over the unfortunate incident. He conveyed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the displaced, and the injured undergoing treatment. Emphasizing NEMA’s compliance with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through Vice President Kashim Shettima, Nyelong highlighted the activation of an Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) across all sectors to ensure comprehensive assistance. The relief items, including food, non-food items, and medical assistance, will be distributed in IDP camps and host communities, with ongoing camp management activities.
During the event, Bokkos Local Government Chairman, Mr. Monday Kassah, informed the delegation of the existence of 12 camps currently managing and monitoring internally displaced persons (IDPs). NEMA, UNICEF, WHO, the Nigerian Red Cross, and other stakeholders are actively involved in the oversight and support of these camps.
Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Civil Defense Corps, the Ministry of Health, and emergency volunteers council members from various local governments and traditional rulers were present at the event, underscoring the collaborative effort to address the humanitarian crisis in the affected areas.
