Stopped in Yelewata on my way to Makurdi today as I commence the first day of my two-day visit to Benue State. It was encouraging to see that life has gradually returned to the community following the unfortunate attack that occurred about nine months ago.
Markets are active again, people are going about their daily activities, and there is a renewed sense of resilience among residents. Community members expressed appreciation for the continued presence of security personnel in the area, noting that it has contributed significantly to the relative calm being experienced. However, they also acknowledged that there are still pockets of incidents in surrounding areas, which have made many farmers cautious about returning fully to their farmlands.
Our engagement with communities remains focused on listening, strengthening local peace efforts and working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that security gains are consolidated so that residents can safely and fully return to their farms and livelihoods.