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somtec Benue State Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism, Benue State Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism, Makurdi (2026)

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Benue State Ministry Of Information, Culture & Tourism

04/06/2026

Benue SBC Team Intensifies Community Mobilisation as Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week Continues

By Elizabeth Uta

The Benue State Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) Team on Tuesday continued its community mobilisation activities as the ongoing Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) entered its second day across the state.

The community mobilisation exercise, which is an activity of the Primary Health Care programme supported by Helen Keller International and UNICEF, was supervised by the SOMTEC Desk Officer, Elizabeth Uta.

The team visited communities and health facilities to sensitise residents on the importance of accessing the various healthcare services being provided during the week-long exercise.

Residents, particularly pregnant women, nursing mothers and caregivers, were encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to obtain essential health services for themselves and their children.

The mobilisation campaign focused on promoting routine immunisation, vitamin A supplementation, deworming, nutrition services, antenatal care and other life-saving interventions aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of mothers, newborns and children.

Members of the SBC Team engaged community leaders, parents and caregivers, stressing the need for full participation in the exercise to ensure that no eligible child or mother is left behind.

They noted that community mobilisation remains crucial to the success of the programme, as it helps increase awareness and encourages families to access available healthcare services.

The team further reiterated that Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week remains a critical platform for delivering integrated healthcare services and reducing preventable illnesses and deaths among women and children.

As the exercise continues across the state, residents have been urged to visit designated health facilities and outreach centres to access the free services being offered by the government and its development partners.

29/05/2026

BENUE SOMTEC TAKES CHOLERA PREVENTION CAMPAIGN TO NORTH BANK, WADATA MARKETS AMID FLOODING THREAT

Members of the Benue State Social Mobilization Technical Committee (SOMTEC) on Thursday embarked on a market-based sensitization campaign against cholera at North Bank and Wadata markets, Makurdi as part of ongoing flood preparedness efforts in the state.

The awareness campaign focused on educating traders, residents and market users on preventive measures against cholera and other flood-related diseases that commonly emerge during and after flooding.

Armed with information posters and public health messages, the team moved through various sections of the markets, interacting directly with traders and members of the public on the dangers of poor hygiene, unsafe water and open defecation.

The campaign highlighted key cholera prevention measures including the use of safe drinking water, proper hand washing, safe food handling and environmental sanitation.

The sensitization materials distributed by the team explained that cholera is a dangerous diarrheal disease spread through contaminated food and water, warning that delayed treatment could lead to severe dehydration and death within a short time.

SOMTEC advised residents to always wash fruits and vegetables with clean water, properly cook and cover food, store water in clean covered containers and maintain proper hygiene practices at all times.

The team also stressed the need for people to stop open defecation and ensure proper waste disposal, especially during the rainy season when flooding can easily contaminate water sources.

As part of the flood preparedness campaign, the committee cautioned traders and residents against walking, playing or conducting business in floodwater, noting that floodwater often carries dangerous contaminants capable of causing disease outbreaks.

They also encouraged market users to move goods away from flood-prone areas and report blocked drainage channels and unsafe dumping sites to relevant authorities.

During the sensitization exercise, SOMTEC educated the public on common symptoms and danger signs of cholera including watery diarrhoea, vomiting, weakness, severe thirst, dry mouth and sunken eyes.

Residents were advised to immediately begin Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) treatment and seek medical attention at the nearest health facility once symptoms are noticed.

The awareness campaign further drew attention to other health risks associated with flooding such as typhoid fever, malaria, skin infections and diarrhoeal diseases.

According to the team, contaminated food and water, stagnant floodwater and poor sanitation remain major drivers of disease outbreaks during flood periods.

The market-based campaign also provided an opportunity for traders and residents to raise concerns about unsafe water sources, blocked drainage systems and poor waste management practices within the markets.

SOMTEC said the exercise was aimed at strengthening community awareness and encouraging preventive action ahead of possible flooding and disease outbreaks in vulnerable communities across Benue State.

The committee emphasized that public awareness and community participation remain critical in reducing the spread of cholera and other communicable diseases during emergencies.

Some traders who interacted with the team commended the initiative, describing the sensitization as timely in view of increasing rainfall and flooding concerns in parts of the state.

29/05/2026

BENUE SOMTEC TRAINS FRONTLINE WORKERS, LG OFFICIALS ON IDP COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Benue State Social Mobilisation and Technical Committee (SOMTEC) on Friday organised a one-day orientation meeting for frontline workers on Community Engagement Activities (CEA) and Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP), aimed at improving humanitarian interventions in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across the state.

The programme, held in Makurdi, gathered local government officials, humanitarian workers, camp coordinators, education stakeholders and community mobilizers working directly with displaced persons in affected communities.

The meeting featured interactive sessions and presentations on accountability, community engagement strategies and the use of Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) tools in humanitarian response activities.

Speaking during the event, the Secretary of Guma Local Government, Mr. Nichols Adagba, described the condition in some IDP camps as difficult, especially regarding access to water, sanitation and other basic services.

He noted that residents in some camps still struggle to access clean water, stressing that interventions currently ongoing at the Mega IDP Camp would significantly improve the situation.

"In some IDP camps, you see people scrambling over water. I was happy to hear that water facilities are being improved at the Mega Camp. The mega camp is very large, and moving from one section to another is not easy, so reticulating the water will help residents access it more easily," he said.

Adagba expressed hope that similar interventions would be extended to other camps, including the International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi, where he said sanitation challenges continue to affect both displaced persons and surrounding host communities.

He explained that overflowing toilet facilities in some camps force residents to seek alternatives outside designated areas, creating concerns among nearby residents.

The Guma council secretary commended frontline workers and humanitarian agencies for their commitment to supporting displaced persons despite the difficult conditions under which they operate.

According to him, local government authorities remain actively involved because the camps are located within their jurisdictions, making them directly responsible for the welfare of displaced persons in those areas.

He identified major camps within Makurdi and Guma axis to include Daudu I, Daudu II, Mega Camp, Abagena Camp and the International Market Camp.

Adagba urged participants to continue treating displaced persons with empathy and to sustain efforts towards strengthening peaceful coexistence between IDPs and host communities.

Also speaking, the Secretary of Makurdi Local Government, Mr Paul Hembe, expressed appreciation for being part of the meeting and appealed for greater attention to also be extended to Gwer East Local Government Area, which he said is equally affected by displacement challenges.

He highlighted the risks faced by displaced persons during the rainy season and pledged the support of the local government towards developing practical resolutions that would improve humanitarian responses in affected communities.

The orientation meeting also featured presentations on accountability to affected populations, interactive discussions and training sessions on community engagement techniques for frontline humanitarian workers.

07/05/2026

Benue SBC Seeks Peaceful Coexistence Between IDPs, Host Communities

By Elizabeth Uta

The Benue Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) team has convened a strategic dialogue between Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and host communities to address tensions and promote peaceful coexistence across camps in the state.

The meeting, held on Wednesday at Eagle Suites, drew representatives of host communities from five major IDP camps including Abagana, Daudu 1, Daudu 2, International Market and Mega camps.

Speaking on behalf of the SBC team, Alexis said the engagement became necessary following concerns raised through the organisation's Community Feedback Mechanisms (CFM), including Focus Group Discussions, Key Informant Interviews, hotlines and complaint desks.

According to him, findings from the feedback channels showed that relationships between IDPs and host communities could be significantly improved.

He noted that strained relationships between displaced persons and their host communities undermine the principles of the United Nations Durable Solutions policy, which advocates social integration, dignity and peaceful living among affected populations.

Alexis stressed the importance of understanding differing perspectives, saying harmonious relationships could only thrive where opposing views are appreciated and respected.

"In SBC, we believe that it is important to see different perspectives. That is why this meeting is very important. The idea is to dialogue as one family before God," he said.

Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Benue State Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Awanya Iorkohol acknowledged the difficult conditions faced by displaced persons in the state.

He assured the IDPs that government and humanitarian actors would intensify efforts toward improving their welfare and living conditions.

Iorkohol commended United Nations Children's Fund for its continued interventions in supporting displaced persons and vulnerable communities in Benue State.
"I want to sincerely thank UNICEF for what they are doing for us," Iorkohl stated.

He also appreciated host communities for accommodating displaced persons despite prevailing socio-economic challenges and appealed to them to continue showing patience, understanding and tolerance.

Participants at the meeting were divided into groups to discuss major sources of conflict between IDPs and host communities and recommend practical solutions.

The dialogue sessions focused on identifying immediate and remote causes of disputes, responsibilities of both IDPs and host communities in preventing conflicts, and the roles expected of government agencies, donors and humanitarian organisations.

The participants were also tasked with proposing timelines for implementing agreed resolutions, assigning responsibilities and developing monitoring and evaluation indicators to track progress.

The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts by SBC and its partners to strengthen social cohesion, reduce tensions and foster mutual understanding between displaced populations and their host communities across Benue State.

19/04/2026

SOMTEC, Partners Urge Benue Govt To Absorb Volunteer Teachers, Tackle Water Crisis In IDP Camps

By Elizabeth Uta

The Benue State Government has been called upon to integrate trained volunteer teachers currently serving in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps into the formal education system, as part of efforts to strengthen learning outcomes for displaced children across the state.

This formed the crux of an advocacy visit by officials of the State-Owned Monitoring and Technical Committee (SOMTEC), in partnership with the UNICEF, to the Benue State Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

The delegation appealed to the state government to absorb the volunteer teachers, many of whom are already trained, certified, and actively engaged in classroom teaching within IDP camps, into the public school system.

They stated that formal employment or the provision of stipends would not only motivate the teachers but also ensure continuity and quality in education delivery for displaced children.

According to the team, the volunteers, despite their own displacement, have demonstrated commitment and capacity in delivering basic education services under challenging conditions. They emphasized that integrating them into the system would help bridge existing gaps in teacher availability within the camps.

The delegation further called for the deployment of additional teachers from the Teachers Service Board (TSB) to IDP camps to reinforce teaching capacity.

They also advocated the establishment of secondary schools within the camps to ensure that children can continue their education beyond the primary level without disruption.

Leader of the delegation, Prof. Maria Onyilo, commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his administration’s sustained support for education in IDP camps, particularly at the primary level. She noted that the partnership between SOMTEC and UNICEF has continued to improve access to education for displaced children across the state.

Responding, the Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, lauded the team for their commitment to improving education in IDP camps. She acknowledged the contributions of volunteer teachers and the role of development partners in supporting the sector.

However, the commissioner advised that future engagements should be backed by comprehensive data, including the number of IDP camps, the total number of volunteer teachers, and their qualifications. She explained that such statistics would enable the government to make informed decisions and design targeted interventions.

Dr. Adamu assured the delegation that the government would examine their requests, reiterating that volunteer teachers, many of whom are themselves displaced, deserve opportunities for formal employment and integration into the state’s education system.

In a related development, the SOMTEC-UNICEF team on Friday, April 17, 2026, paid a similar advocacy visit to the Benue State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (BERWASA), seeking urgent intervention in water and sanitation challenges affecting five IDP camps in Makurdi.

Speaking during the visit, director Public Enlightenment Comfort Ajunwa explained that SOMTEC has been implementing interventions in IDP camps since March 2024 and routinely escalates identified challenges to relevant agencies. She said the visit to BERWASA was part of ongoing efforts to improve living conditions in the camps.

Director, Public Enlightenment Comfort Ajunwa highlighted critical issues across the camps, noting that apart from Abagena camp, most others face acute water shortages. While Abagena struggles with inadequate and congested toilet facilities, Daudu Camps I and II are grappling with both water supply failures and overstretched sanitation infrastructure.

At the International Market IDP camp, she said, the population has overwhelmed the available boreholes, leading to frequent breakdowns, while the Mega IDP camp is similarly affected by congested sanitation facilities.

In response, the Acting General Manager of BERWASA Mr Anthony Mkpen assured the delegation of the agency’s commitment to addressing the challenges in collaboration with UNICEF. He, however, cited limited budgetary provisions and inadequate operational funding as constraints.

“We are here to serve,” the General Manager stated, emphasizing that the agency remains responsible for providing water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

He encouraged the team to maintain regular communication with BERWASA to ensure prompt reporting and resolution of issues affecting IDPs.

10/04/2026

From Feedback To Trust: Enugu Workshop Ends With Strong Call For Community-Driven Accountability

By Elizabeth Uta

The two-day capacity-building workshop on Social and Behaviour Change (SBC), Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP), and Complaint and Feedback Mechanisms (CFM) which kicked off on Wednesday in Enugu State, rounded off of Thursday on a reflective and action-oriented note, with participants consolidating lessons and sharpening strategies for stronger community engagement.

Day two of the training built on the momentum of earlier sessions, shifting focus from conceptual understanding to practical application. Participants engaged in intensive discussions around operationalising feedback systems and strengthening accountability structures within their various programmes.

The sessions opened with a review of key takeaways from day one, reinforcing the importance of aligning communication strategies with community realities.

Facilitators guided participants through structured conversations on how to design and implement effective Complaint and Feedback Mechanisms that are accessible, inclusive, and responsive.

A major highlight of the day was the deep dive into real-life scenarios, where participants examined case studies and shared field experiences from Benue, Cross River, and Enugu States. These exchanges provided a platform for cross-learning, allowing programme officers and facilitators to identify both common challenges and innovative solutions in managing community feedback and expectations.

Further sessions emphasized the need for closing the feedback loop, ensuring that communities not only voice concerns but also see tangible responses and outcomes. Facilitators stressed that accountability is not merely about collecting complaints but about building trust through consistent engagement, transparency, and timely action.

Participants also worked in groups to refine state-specific action plans, integrating lessons from both days into practical strategies tailored to their operational contexts. These plans focused on strengthening grassroots structures, improving communication channels, and embedding accountability into programme design and implementation.

As the workshop drew to a close, contributors unanimously agreed that the success of development interventions hinges on the extent to which communities are actively involved and heard.

The central message was that effective programmes are those that listen, respond, and adapt to the needs of the people they serve.

The training ended with commitment from participants to return to their respective states and implement more inclusive, transparent, and people-centred approaches.

Stakeholders expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would translate into improved trust, stronger partnerships, and more impactful development outcomes across the participating states.

09/04/2026

Stakeholders Deepen Focus on Accountability, Community Feedback Systems at Enugu Workshop

By Elizabeth Uta

Participants at the ongoing two-day training on Social and Behaviour Change (SBC), Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP), and Complaint and Feedback Mechanisms (CFM) in Enugu have intensified discussions on strengthening community trust and responsiveness in development programmes.

The workshop, which began on Wednesday with participants drawn from Enugu, Benue and Cross River States, entered its second day on Thursday with a strong emphasis on practical accountability frameworks and community-driven feedback systems.

Building on the foundation laid on day one, participants engaged in a comprehensive session on the Seven Pillars of Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP), where facilitators highlighted core principles required to ensure that interventions remain transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of beneficiaries.

A key highlight of the day was the session on working with local partners, which demonstrated the importance of collaboration with grassroots actors in designing and implementing effective community engagement strategies.

Facilitators stressed that sustainable impact depends largely on integrating local knowledge and strengthening partnerships at the community level.

Discussions also centred on Complaint and Feedback Mechanisms (CFM), with participants exploring how structured systems can enable communities to report concerns, provide input, and influence decision-making processes.
The session emphasized the role of feedback loops in improving programme delivery and accountability.

In a more practical segment, participants were taken through the process of setting up functional CFM systems, including the use of standardized feedback forms and tools designed to capture, track, and respond to community complaints effectively.

The training is expected to equip stakeholders with actionable skills to institutionalize accountability practices, enhance transparency, and foster stronger relationships between programme implementers and the communities they serve.

The workshop will conclude with action planning and commitments by participants to adapt the lessons learned to their respective states, particularly in strengthening inclusive engagement and feedback systems.

31/03/2026

GIGREE Trains Benue WHRDs Digital Safety, Online Protection

By Elizabeth Uta

Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in Benue State have called for strengthened awareness and coordinated action to tackle rising cases of online harassment and digital rights violations, following a two-day training organised by the Global Initiative for Girls' Right Education and Empowerment (GIGREE)

The training attracted participants from civil society organisations, community groups and other relevant sectors, with a focus on equipping attendees with practical knowledge to navigate the digital space safely and respond effectively to online threats.

Sessions during the programme examined key issues such as digital safety policies, reporting mechanisms and evidence preservation with facilitators emphasizing the importance of prompt documentation of online abuse to support investigations and possible legal action.

Participants were also exposed to existing legal frameworks guiding online protection and regulation, with emphasis on the rights and responsibilities of internet users, as well as the role of institutions in ensuring compliance.

A major highlight of the training was a session on managing online harassment and ensuring emotional safety. Experts outlined strategies for handling abuse, safeguarding mental well-being and supporting victims, noting the increasing sophistication of online threats and the need for heightened vigilance.

In another session, facilitators addressed crisis communication and reputation management, stressing the importance of timely and accurate responses to misinformation and reputational risks in the digital space.

The training further provided a platform for participants to review digital safety policies and offer feedback aimed at improving their effectiveness in addressing emerging challenges.

At the end of the programme, participants developed action plans tailored to their respective communities and organisations, focusing on awareness creation, prevention strategies and support systems for victims of online abuse.

They also pledged to intensify advocacy efforts, promote responsible online behaviour and strengthen collaboration with relevant authorities to curb digital rights violations.

The programme ended with a call for sustained engagement, expanded public awareness campaigns and increased training initiatives to reach more stakeholders, particularly at the grassroots level.

28/03/2026

SOMTEC Takes Lassa Fever Awareness Campaign To Makurdi Markets

The Social Mobilization Technical Committee (SOMTEC) in Benue State on Friday embarked on a large-scale sensitization campaign across major markets in Makurdi, educating traders and residents on the causes, prevention and treatment of Lassa fever following renewed public health concerns.

The campaign, held on March 27, 2026, saw members of the committee divided into three teams, which visited Wurukum, Yaikyo and Modern Markets simultaneously, where they engaged traders and distributed informational materials.

At the various markets, the teams educated residents that Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rats, particularly the multimammate rat species common in West Africa.

They also warned that human-to-human transmission can occur through exposure to infected bodily fluids, especially in the absence of proper hygiene.

At Yaikyo Market, a team led by director National Orientation Agency Mr Dewua Mark distributed pamphlets and pasted educational materials on walls and trees at strategic locations to ensure wider visibility,the same was also carried out At Modern market the team was lead by Prof Maria Agbenu and the team for wurukum market lead by director Mrs Ajunwa comfort.

The teams emphasized that prevention of Lassa fever largely depends on maintaining proper environmental sanitation and food hygiene.

Traders were advised to store food in rodent-proof containers, keep their surroundings clean, dispose of waste properly, and avoid leaving food exposed where it can be contaminated by rats.

They also highlighted the importance of early medical intervention, noting that although there is no widely approved vaccine, early detection and supportive treatment, including rehydration and management of symptoms, significantly improve survival chances.

During the engagement, some traders shared practical challenges in implementing preventive measures. A fish seller, Nguhilen Tyolumun, explained that covering food items is sometimes difficult. “At times, even when we cover food with nylon, rats still pierce through it. It makes it difficult for us to fully comply with the guidelines,” she lamented.

Other traders acknowledged prior awareness of Lassa fever but noted that they were unaware of any recent outbreak, showing the importance of continuous public sensitization.

Speaking after the exercise, Elizabeth Uta commended the teams for their efforts, describing the outreach as impactful.
“Team One, you did very well. The campaign was massive. Teams Two and Three also did excellently,” she said.

Also speaking, a UNICEF representative, Mr Victor Olaniyi, expressed satisfaction with the exercise and urged the teams to enhance future campaigns with the use of public address systems to reach a broader audience.

Dr Jubril Mohamed of UNICEF, Abuja, also praised the market communities for their receptiveness and active participation. He noted that the willingness of traders to ask questions and engage with the campaign demonstrated growing awareness and community interest in preventing the spread of Lassa fever.

The sensitization exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots awareness and promote behavioral changes necessary to curb the spread of the disease in endemic communities.

20/03/2026

UNICEF, Benue State SBC Team Train Camp Youth Volunteers and Vamp Officials in 5 IDP Camps on Disease Prevention, Interpersonal Communication

Camp Youth Volunteers (CYVs) in Benue State have been trained on interpersonal communication, disease prevention and community engagement strategies as part of efforts to strengthen response in Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps.

The one-day orientation, held on Thursday, focused on equipping the volunteers with practical knowledge on interpersonal communication (IPC), Social and Behavioural Change (SBC), and Lassa fever prevention, with support from UNICEF.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Orientation, represented by Acting Director of Administration and Supplies, Awanya Amos, welcomed participants and development partners, commending UNICEF for its consistent support toward the wellbeing of women, children and vulnerable groups in the state.

He urged IDPs to always seek peaceful resolutions in conflict situations, assuring that the ministry remains committed to supporting UNICEF-driven awareness campaigns across the state.

Awanya also encouraged the volunteers to pay close attention to the training sessions and apply the knowledge gained for the benefit of camp residents.

In a goodwill message, the Executive Secretary, Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Dr James Iorpuu, represented by Administrative Officer, Mr Donald Komgbenda, appreciated UNICEF’s efforts in building resilience among affected populations, particularly during emergencies.

He called on IDPs to embrace unity and cooperation, noting that their stay in camps is temporary, while assuring that the state government, through relevant agencies, is working towards their safe return to their communities.

UNICEF SBC Specialist, Dr. Hilary Ozoh, expressed satisfaction with reports from the state SBC team and commended stakeholders, including SEMA, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Ministry of Information, and the CYVs, for their dedication. He urged all participants to sustain the momentum in improving communication and behavioural change interventions in the camps.

Earlier, Prof. Maria Agbenu outlined the objectives of the meeting, stressing the importance of effective communication in influencing knowledge, attitudes and practices among camp residents.

Dr. Alexis Tsavmbu, in his presentation, highlighted the role of SBC in reaching target audiences, noting that behavioural change interventions are critical in improving public health outcomes in humanitarian settings.

An interactive session facilitated by SBC Consultant, Rebecca, provided participants the opportunity to seek clarifications on key issues raised during the presentations.

Addressing concerns raised by some CYVs over ineffective referral and feedback mechanisms in the camps, the SEMA representative advised volunteers to follow established communication channels to ensure their concerns are addressed promptly.

Participants also engaged in role-play exercises designed to enhance understanding of daily challenges encountered in IDP camps and improve response strategies.

Further sessions focused on interpersonal communication techniques, with emphasis on practical application in camp environments.

SBC Consultant, Victor Olaniyi, delivered a presentation on Lassa fever prevention, describing the disease as highly dangerous and prevalent in Nigeria, with Benue State bearing a significant burden.
He urged volunteers to intensify sensitisation efforts among camp residents, discourage risky behaviours, identify symptoms early and counter misinformation with accurate health information.

The session also featured discussions on consensus-building for 2026 interventions in the camps, including IPC services, reflective dialogues, community engagement and accountability frameworks.

In her closing remarks, the Director in the Ministry of Information and Orientation, Mrs. Ajunwa Comfort, thanked participants for their active engagement and appreciated UNICEF for its sustained support.

She also commended the SBC Specialist and the state team for their commitment, while wishing all participants safe travels back to their respective destinations.

somtec Benue State Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism

04/06/2026

29/05/2026

29/05/2026

07/05/2026

19/04/2026

10/04/2026

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31/03/2026

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