In a continued effort to support children affected by violence in Benue State, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has stepped in to provide educational relief for children displaced by the Yelwata community attack.
UNICEF has established a space-learning centre within the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp at the International Market in Makurdi, providing over 1,500 displaced children access to formal education. The initiative is being supported by the Benue State Government, which has deployed teachers to facilitate learning.
During a recent visit, UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Mrs. Juliet Chihiwe, donated school bags, exercise books, and sportswear to the children. She reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting the learners, promising continued assistance even after they return to their communities.
“We have over 1,500 displaced children, and we are here to support them with essential educational materials,” Chihiwe said. She urged relevant government bodies like the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to scale up their support and ensure the children are not left behind.
“There is a pressing need for more learning materials, additional teachers, and a long-term plan to continue supporting these children up to the tertiary level,” she added.
Speaking on behalf of the state, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management, Mrs. Helen Nambativ, thanked UNICEF for its intervention. “These children are at a critical stage in their lives. If we don’t support them now, we risk losing them forever. What UNICEF has done is a tremendous relief,” she said.
Also addressing the gathering, UNICEF Education Specialist for the Enugu Field Office, Mrs. Agatha Nzeribe, emphasized that the support extends beyond materials. “We’re helping these children gain access to formal learning, curriculum-aligned services, and a sense of safety,” she noted.
UNICEF remains one of the most consistent partners in the education sector in Benue State, especially during emergencies—bringing hope and continuity to thousands of vulnerable children.
