Nigeria — Biometric Registration Update Report 1 Benue State (1 November 2023)

Registration provides a more in-depth analysis of specific needs by capturing bio data using the DTM-developed Biometric Registration and Verification Application (B.R.a.Ve) system, which accurately registers IDPs. It provides further information on the individuals, households, vulnerability, and displacement-related triggers for programming and response over time.

As part of the commitment to provide verified figures of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue State in line with the government’s plans, IOM DTM, in partnership with UNHCR, Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS), National Commission for Refugee, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Community Links and the Foundation for Justice Development and Peace (FJDP) launched the biometric registration in Benue State on 22 August 2023.

Six LGAs have been mapped as locations with IDPs in Benue State based on DTM Round 11 (March 2023). So far, the biometrically registered IDPs have covered the location of Makurdi LGA (5 camps and two host community sites), Guma LGA (2 camps and two host community sites) and currently ongoing in Logo LGA (1 camp, one host community site and another camp/site). The registration has shown that Guma LGA has the highest number of IDPs, with 23,280 individuals (6,749 HHs), followed by Makurdi with 13,578 individuals (4,020 HHs). The registration is ongoing in Logo LGA, with 10,105 registered individuals (2,433 HHs).

Moreover, 6,153 individuals with vulnerabilities (serious medical illness) have been referred to MSF for further support. All registered IDPs have received a PVC card with a unique number for easy identification. The registration exercise is expected to be completed by December 2023.
The observed challenges include rain disruption, security concerns, access issues, poor networks, and accommodation challenges for the field team in the deep location.