Shock as Benue IDPs Camp Records 200 New Births Monthly

Benue State’s Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps have recorded an alarming 200 new births per month, raising significant concerns about healthcare and living conditions. With over 1.5 million IDPs spread across 17 camps, the state struggles to meet basic needs amid ongoing security challenges posed by armed herdsmen.

The IDPs, forced from their homes in regions such as Guma, Agatu, and Gwer West, face severe shortages of food, medicine, and sleeping space. Despite these hardships, there has been a notable increase in child births in the camps, especially in Ortese camp, Guma LGA, where over 200 new babies are born each month.

Anngu, an IDP and father of two, explained, “In the camp, we find happiness with our spouses, which helps ease our pain.” However, he noted that many do not use the provided family planning resources.

Mrs. Grace Wende, Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Health Care Board, highlighted the urgency of the situation during a visit. “The number of births is high, and we must address it. Many women are willing to use family planning, but their husbands resist.”

The findings, part of a UNICEF/WHO humanitarian health response, indicate that more comprehensive advocacy and education efforts are needed, particularly targeting men to support family planning measures. This development adds to the already critical need for enhanced healthcare and support services in Benue’s IDPs camps.