Fact-Check: The Impact of IOM’s Lifesaving Interventions In Ortese & Mbayongu IDP Mega Camps

Ortese IDPs fetching water from solar- powered boreholes installed by IOM with support from USAID
Fact-Check: The Impact of IOM’s Lifesaving Interventions In Ortese & Mbayongu IDP Mega Camps
By Amos Aar
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), under its Rapid Response Fund (RRFN013) project titled Lifesaving Multi-Sectoral Intervention to Crisis-Affected Populations in Benue State, has been making remarkable strides in addressing the needs of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State with support from United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The project, implemented across 10 IDP camps in Makurdi and Guma LGAs, has delivered life-saving assistance in water, sanitation, hygiene, protection, and shelter.
In the Ortese IDP Camp, IOM tackled perennial water scarcity by constructing a water treatment plant and extending water reticulation over 4 kilometers to the camp. This initiative ensured access to clean water for over 20,000 individuals. Further, nine water systems were rehabilitated, and five new solar-powered boreholes were drilled, guaranteeing a 24-hour water supply.

To promote sanitation, IOM built 443 sanitation facilities, rehabilitated 369 units, and installed 200 solar streetlights for safety. Additionally, 400 waste bins were distributed across the camp. Weekly hygiene promotion efforts reached approximately 60,000 individuals, complemented by the distribution of hygiene kits, menstrual hygiene management kits, and replenishment supplies for families.
In the area of protection, IOM distributed dignity kits to 500 vulnerable women and girls. The organization also trained 99 government staff and humanitarian actors in mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). Outreach programs reached over 18,000 people, raising awareness of protection risks in IDP camps. Referral pathways for gender-based violence (GBV), child protection, and MHPSS were strengthened, with coordination support from local ministries and Radio Benue.
During a fact-checking visit to Ortese camp, IDPs expressed gratitude for IOM’s interventions but also highlighted remaining challenges.
Lizzy Asan, the camp manager, speaking through Polycarp Isho, a block leader and Terre des Hommes (TDH) volunteer, commended IOM’s efforts. “In six months, IOM has constructed good toilets, installed solar panels, and provided quality water. However, the fetching points for water are inadequate, causing long queues and pressure,” she explained.

The camp manager called for additional water fetching points and the repair of the major pumping station. “IOM assured us they would dredge the dam to ensure water supply year-round. This is the right time to act,” she urged.

Another critical issue raised was the lack of a hospital. The camp currently has only a small clinic for children and pregnant women. “A resident, Mr. Terfa Ugan, has been suffering from severe stomach pain for days, but there is no adequate treatment facility here,” she said, adding that accidents and snake bites require assistance from external facilities, which complicates emergency response.
At the IDP Mega Camp in Mbayongo, Guma LGA, IOM’s efforts have been equally impactful. Over 2,000 shelters have been constructed, accompanied by the installation of more than 300 solar panels, 100 toilets, and seven water stations. The waste management system is well-organized, with strategically placed bins and a pit for proper disposal.


Despite these achievements, challenges remain. According to camp chairman, Mr. Unom Samson, classrooms at the camp are yet to be equipped, leaving children without access to education. “We also lack a functional hospital, but these issues will be resolved once the work is completed,” he stated.

Mr. Dennis Yongu, a security personnel and block leader at the mega camp, expressed appreciation for the collaboration between the Benue State government and IOM. “Without Governor Hyacinth Alia’s intervention, IOM wouldn’t have come. We are grateful for his administration’s efforts,” he said.

While IOM’s interventions have significantly improved living conditions in Ortese and Mbayongo camps, the IDPs continue to call for more comprehensive support. Additional water facilities, functional hospitals, and equipped classrooms are critical to addressing the remaining gaps and ensuring sustainable development in these camps.
The partnership between IOM and the Benue State government demonstrates the impact of coordinated humanitarian efforts in transforming the lives of displaced communities. Continued collaboration and support from stakeholders will be vital in addressing the unmet needs of the IDPs.

This report is powered by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State council.