Addressing the challenges that Benue children have been encountering, the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, emphasized the need for collective efforts to alter the situation.
During the inauguration of the State Steering Committee for the ‘Save the Benue Child’ project on Friday, the governor, represented by Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Fidelis Mnyim, expressed concern over the lack of quality education and healthcare services for Benue children over the years.
He outlined his administration’s objective of leveraging the project to collaborate with various stakeholders through community engagements and the provision of support services.
According to him, “Today, we acknowledge the stark reality that many children in Benue are faced with challenges that no child should ever endure. From inadequate access to education, and healthcare, to the harsh impacts of crisis poverty and neglect, these young lives are at risk. But we also recognize an immense opportunity—an opportunity to effect meaningful change and to forge a path towards hope and opportunity.
“The ‘Save the Benue Child’ project is not just a response to these challenges; it is also a commitment to action. Our goal is to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the needs of these children holistically.
“We will focus on improving access to quality education, ensuring health and nutrition, Identifying and rescuing child victims of human trafficking, child exploitation, sexual abuse, providing support services for vulnerable rescued children, prosecuting perpetrators and holding them accountable, raising awareness and sensitising communities on human trafficking and child exploitation and providing the necessary support to safeguard their well-being.
“Government will join forces with local communities, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations to ensure that the efforts are both impactful and sustainable.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Gloria Bai, the Zonal Coordinator of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, urged all stakeholders to contribute to securing the future of Benue children.
Acting as co-chairman of the “Benue Taskforce on Human Trafficking” alongside the state attorney general, Bai highlighted the rising incidents of human trafficking in the state.
Prior to this, Mrs. Mabel Ade, the Executive Director of Adinya Arise Foundation, characterized the event as a crucial moment in the collective battle against human trafficking in the state.