Bureau for International Cooperation and Development

21/08/2026

Benue Strengthens Partnership with Sasakawa Africa Foundation on Sustainable Agriculture

By Julie Okenyi
20 August 2026

The Benue State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Sasakawa Africa Foundation (SAF) to promote sustainable agriculture, improve livelihoods and strengthen farming communities across the state.

The commitment was made when a SAF delegation, led by Ms. Mina Kotao from the Foundation’s headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, paid a courtesy visit to the Director-General of the Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), Dr. Aondoaseer Leonard Angelo Viashima, in Makurdi.

Dr. Viashima stressed that development partnerships must be anchored on government ownership, effective coordination and alignment with state priorities to achieve lasting results. He called on SAF to consider supporting the IDP farming projects established by Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, particularly by strengthening farming cooperatives and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for internally displaced persons (IDPs) returning to their ancestral communities.

According to him, agricultural interventions should go beyond immediate support to help communities become self-reliant. He therefore encouraged development partners to build clear sustainability and exit strategies into their interventions from the outset, assuring the delegation that BICD would continue to coordinate SAF’s engagement with relevant government institutions and partners to enhance impact and sustainability.

The SAF delegation highlighted its work across seven local government areas, focusing on regenerative, nutrition-sensitive and market-oriented agriculture, digital extension, farmer capacity building and the inclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities. The Foundation also highlighted its support for rice, maize, soybean and cassava production, including efforts to strengthen cassava seed systems and improve farmers’ productivity.

Ms. Kotao expressed appreciation for BICD’s support and reaffirmed SAF’s commitment to continued collaboration with the Benue State Government to advance sustainable agricultural development and improve livelihoods.

20/08/2026

19/08/2026

Today, we join the global community in celebrating 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆 and honouring the courage, compassion and selfless service of humanitarian workers, volunteers and development partners.

Across 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 and beyond, their dedication continues to bring hope, relief and support to vulnerable communities.

Together, we can build stronger, more resilient and inclusive communities.

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲.

#𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙𝙃𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙣𝘿𝙖𝙮 #𝘼𝙘𝙩𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙃𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮 #𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝𝘽𝙚𝙣𝙪𝙚 #𝙏𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙄𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙩

16/08/2026

BICD WEEKLY ACTIVITY OVERVIEW
Week: 10–14 August 2026
By Julie Okenyi

Strategic Summary
During the week, the Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) strengthened its role as a bridge between the State Government, development partners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
Activities focused on climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, durable solutions for displaced populations, peacebuilding, civil society participation and youth development. BICD promoted partnerships that advance practical, government-owned and community-informed solutions.

Key Results at a Glance Strengthened collaboration with FAO and ICRISAT on climate-resilient livelihoods and investment planning. Advanced discussions on an investment framework for IDPs, returnees and host communities. Renewed cooperation with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) on peacebuilding. Strengthened engagement with CSO-B/BENGONET on civil society participation. Participated in the 2026 International Youth Day celebration, promoting youth as partners and leaders. Promoted coordinated, government-led development programming.

Priority Engagements and Outcomes Climate-Resilient Livelihoods and Durable Solutions
BICD engaged with FAO and ICRISAT on developing a Climate-Resilient Livelihood Strategy for Benue State, 2026–2030, alongside an investment framework for durable solutions. The initiative will identify sustainable livelihood opportunities and priority investments for IDPs, returnees and host communities.
BICD emphasised a state-led and inclusive process involving government institutions, research organisations, development partners and affected communities. Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
BICD received the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) and reaffirmed its commitment to peacebuilding and conflict resolution in Benue State.
Discussions focused on stakeholder coordination, analysis of key actors and ensuring that peacebuilding interventions complement existing government structures, particularly the Peace Commission. Civil Society Partnership
BICD welcomed CSO-B/BENGONET during a courtesy visit to strengthen government-civil society collaboration. Discussions explored improved coordination and meaningful CSO contributions to the state’s development priorities. Youth Development
BICD participated in the 2026 International Youth Day celebration, highlighting young people as active partners, innovators and leaders rather than mere beneficiaries.
Key areas discussed included agriculture, entrepreneurship, sports, the creative economy, skills development, employment and youth participation in governance.

Cross-Cutting Message
BICD reinforced that sustainable development requires government ownership, strong partnerships, meaningful participation and a focus on implementation. Policies, strategies and investment frameworks must translate into practical improvements in livelihoods, peace, resilience and opportunities for vulnerable communities and young people.

Next Steps
BICD will facilitate broader government participation in the FAO/ICRISAT initiative and support consultations towards an actionable investment framework. It will deepen collaboration with HD on peacebuilding, strengthen engagement with CSO-B/BENGONET and other civil society actors, and promote sustainable opportunities for young people, displaced populations, returnees and host communities.
The focus remains clear: building partnerships that deliver practical, inclusive and lasting development outcomes for Benue State.

15/08/2026

Benue Partners FAO, ICRISAT to Advance Climate-Resilient Livelihoods for Durable Solutions
By Julie Okenyi
August 14th 2026

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) have commenced an inception workshop to develop climate-resilient livelihood pathways and an investment framework for durable solutions in Benue State.

Held in Makurdi, the workshop is focused on developing a Climate-Resilient Livelihood Strategy for Benue State, 2026–2030, aimed at strengthening livelihoods, food security and community resilience while addressing the effects of climate change and humanitarian crises.

The initiative will identify climate-resilient livelihood opportunities and priority investments for internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees and host communities. It will also provide a practical framework to support government and development partners in mobilising resources for sustainable interventions.

Speaking at the engagement, the Director-General of the Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD), Dr. Aondoaseer Leonard Angelo Viashima, commended FAO and ICRISAT for recognising Benue as a strategic partner in advancing climate-resilient livelihoods.

Dr. Viashima stressed that durable solutions should help vulnerable communities move beyond dependence on emergency assistance and build sustainable livelihoods over the long term. He noted that although humanitarian support remains necessary during crises, it cannot, on its own, address the deeper socioeconomic challenges facing displaced populations.

He emphasised that durable solutions are fundamentally a government responsibility and require coordinated action among ministries, departments and agencies, development partners, local authorities and affected communities.

The BICD Director-General said the Benue State Government, under the leadership of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, had commenced implementation of aspects of the State's Durable Solutions Action Plan, developed following the Federal Government's durable solutions initiative launched in Benue in January 2025.

He cited improved drainage systems, climate-smart agriculture, dry-season farming and the development of farms for IDPs as practical measures being pursued. According to him, the state has committed 10 per cent of its budget towards durable solutions and provided 250 hectares of land for IDP farming.

Speaking on behalf of ICRISAT, Dr. Amaru Kamara said climate-smart analysis undertaken in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States had demonstrated the importance of putting livelihoods at the centre of durable solutions. He stressed that interventions must be people-centred and informed by consultations with households, returnees and other affected populations.

The workshop featured thematic breakout sessions where government institutions, development partners and other stakeholders reviewed existing gaps and developed recommendations for climate-resilient livelihood interventions.

The engagement reaffirmed the commitment of the Benue State Government and its partners to strengthening resilience, expanding sustainable livelihood opportunities and helping vulnerable communities move from emergency assistance towards lasting solutions.

07/08/2026

The Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development supports Inter-Agency Collaboration in partnership with the Community Links and Human Empowerment Initiative in stakeholders engagement meeting with the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, the Benue State Ministry of Education and Knowledge Sharing, UNICEF Nigeria, security agencies, royal fathes and other relevant stakeholders on INTEGRATION OF PROTECTION FROM SEXUAL EXPLOITATION AND ABUSE (PSEA) CODE OF CONDUCT INTO SCHOOL SAFEGUARDING POLICIES.

https://www.facebook.com/100064553119450/posts/1463710029124087/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v

06/08/2026

At BICD, we believe every child deserves the healthiest start in life. This World Breastfeeding Week, we encourage families, communities, and institutions to support every mother with confidence, care, and dignity.

05/08/2026

BENUE ADVANCES CLIMATE MOBILITY AGENDA, BICD SEEKS UNIFIED DISPLACEMENT DATA SYSTEM

By Julie Okenyi
Makurdi, Benue State | Monday, 3 August 2026

The Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) has called for a government-led, unified displacement data system to strengthen climate adaptation, humanitarian response and long-term development planning across the state.

The Director General of BICD, Dr. Aondoaseer Leonard Angelo Viashima, made the call during a One-Day Inter-Agency Stakeholder Meeting on Addressing Climate Change and Migration in Benue State's Agricultural Sector, organised by the RACE Centre with support from the ECOWAS Commission, GIZ and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Speaking during a panel discussion, Dr. Viashima said Benue had reached a point where the challenge was no longer the availability of displacement data but the lack of coordination among institutions collecting it.

"Our challenge is no longer the absence of data but the fragmentation of data. Different organisations are collecting information for different purposes. We need one harmonised, government-owned system that all partners can rely on for planning, emergency response and long-term development," he said.

To achieve this, he proposed a high-level harmonisation meeting involving the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Benue State Bureau of Statistics, relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and development partners to establish a common framework for managing displacement data, reducing duplication and improving coordinated decision-making.

He also advocated wider use of the State Social Register as a shared vulnerability database, describing it as an important tool for identifying those most in need and ensuring that government and development partners deliver targeted, coordinated interventions.

Dr. Viashima stressed that climate-smart agriculture, humanitarian action, peacebuilding and sustainable development would produce better results when driven through coordinated government systems rather than isolated projects.

He commended Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for providing an enabling environment that continues to attract credible development partners to Benue and appreciated the ECOWAS Commission, GIZ, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the RACE Centre and other partners for their continued support to the state's development priorities.

Earlier, findings from the ARRIVE research showed that climate change, flooding and displacement are increasingly reshaping Makurdi and other urban centres, placing growing pressure on housing, water supply, sanitation, education and social protection while exposing women, children and other vulnerable groups to greater protection risks.

The meeting ended with stakeholders committing to deepen collaboration, harmonise displacement data systems, integrate climate mobility into state planning and pursue coordinated actions that build resilience, protect livelihoods and promote sustainable agricultural development across Benue State.

02/08/2026

By Emmanuel Antswen The Benue Government has urged trained social workers and frontline caregivers to take Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness to all 276 wards across the state. The government sa…

02/08/2026

BENUE STATE BUREAU FOR INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT (BICD)
WEEKLY ACTIVITY OVERVIEW
By Juliana Okenyi
Reporting Period: 27th – 31st July 2026

Strategic Summary
During the week under review, the Benue State Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) continued to strengthen partnerships that support the state's development agenda. Through active participation in key engagements on public health, food security, humanitarian response, and gender-based violence (GBV), the Bureau worked alongside government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, and humanitarian actors to promote coordinated and sustainable development across Benue State.

Key Results at a Glance
, Joined the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day 2026, reaffirming support for the global goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. Participated in the endorsement and launch of the Benue State Strategic Food Security Plan, aimed at improving agricultural productivity, nutrition, and climate resilience. Joined government and humanitarian partners in honouring the outgoing Head of IOM Benue Sub-Office, Mrs. Mediatrice (Medi) Barendayobo, for her contributions to humanitarian service in the state. Reaffirmed BICD's commitment to strengthening the prevention of and response to gender-based violence through capacity building and strategic collaboration.

Priority Engagements and Outcomes
1. BICD participated in activities marking World Hepatitis Day, where stakeholders called for increased public awareness, wider access to screening and vaccination, and stronger integration of hepatitis services into primary healthcare to help achieve the 2030 elimination target.
2. The Bureau also joined stakeholders at the launch of the Benue State Strategic Food Security Plan, a collaborative roadmap expected to strengthen food systems, promote climate-smart agriculture, improve nutrition, and create greater opportunities for agribusiness development.
3. In the humanitarian sector, BICD joined the Benue State Government and development partners to celebrate the service of the outgoing IOM Benue Head of Sub-Office. The event highlighted the importance of sustained partnerships in supporting internally displaced persons, host communities, and peacebuilding efforts across the state.
4. The Bureau further reaffirmed its support for strengthening GBV prevention and survivor-centred response by promoting capacity building for frontline responders and improved coordination among service providers.

Cross-Cutting Messages Reinforced by BICD
Across all engagements, BICD emphasised that lasting development depends on strong partnerships, effective coordination, and inclusive approaches. The Bureau continued to advocate for evidence-based planning, institutional strengthening, community resilience, and collective action in advancing Benue State's development priorities.

Next Steps
BICD will continue working closely with government institutions, development partners, humanitarian agencies, and civil society organisations to deepen collaboration, mobilise resources, and support impactful programmes in health, agriculture, humanitarian response, and social protection, while advancing sustainable development across Benue State.