SEMA Allocates N160 Million for Snakebite Treatment in Benue

The Benue State government has allocated N160 million for the treatment of snakebite cases among internally displaced persons (IDPs). Sir James Iorpuu, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), disclosed this during an interview with journalists in Makurdi.

He highlighted that the expenditure covered medical treatment and hospital bills for affected IDPs. Iorpuu pointed out significant challenges such as inadequate funding, shortages of medical personnel, and limited transportation, which hinder the agency's ability to meet the humanitarian needs of displaced persons.

He also noted a decline in food distribution, with SEMA providing fewer than 2,000 bags of rice in September, down from over 3,500 bags typically distributed monthly. Despite these challenges, SEMA has continued its efforts in food distribution, healthcare, education, and security monitoring.

Iorpuu mentioned that 248 community reporters have been trained to report security incidents, and 163 displaced children have enrolled in schools through SEMA's interventions. Additionally, SEMA is collaborating with UNHCR to establish settlement facilities and healthcare infrastructure for IDPs.