6 hours ago
3
November 21, (THEWILL) – The Benue State Emergency Management Agency and the Benue State University Teaching Hospital have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide medical treatment for Internally Displaced Persons in the state.
Dr. James Iorpuu, Executive Secretary of BSEMA, officiated the signing ceremony in Makurdi on Thursday, describing the partnership as a significant step in addressing the urgent health needs of the displaced populations.
“The plight of our brothers and sisters in IDP camps across Makurdi and Guma Local Government Areas remains one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges of our time.
“These vulnerable communities face significant difficulties, especially in accessing the medical attention they urgently need, due to financial constraints and logistical barriers,” Dr. Iorpuu said.
Under the agreement, IDPs in the ten designated camps will now have access to timely healthcare services at BSUTH, with medical bills to be settled by BSEMA at a later date.
Iorpuu commended the management of BSUTH for their willingness to collaborate on this noble cause, highlighting the importance of ensuring that displaced persons receive the care they need.
Dr. Stephen Hwande, Chief Medical Director of BSUTH, expressed gratitude to BSEMA for initiating the partnership, calling it a groundbreaking effort in the state.
He noted that the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia has prioritized the health sector, with the State Teaching Hospital being repositioned to address not only the state’s health challenges but also those of neighboring regions.
Hwande assured that BSUTH would provide comprehensive healthcare services to the IDPs in line with the MoU, emphasising that common health issues in the camps, such as fever, cholera, and other waterborne diseases, would be closely monitored and treated.
